DAVID GINOLA HAS hit back at Alan Shearer over a perceived “lack of respect” towards Ligue 1 from the ex-England striker.

The Premier League’s record goalscorer criticised recent Newcastle signing Florian Thauvin for a lack of work ethic and suggested that the winger “might get away with that in French league but in Premier League you have to track back”.

Ginola, who also enjoyed cult status at St James’ Park, hit back at his former team-mate for the comments while acting as a pundit on Canal+.

“It is an arrogant comment. With everything Ligue 1 has brought to the Premier League in terms of players, he should show a bit of respect,” he sniped.

David Ginola - then of Tottenham - races clear of Newcastle's Alan Shearer during a clash in April 1999. Steve Mitchell / EMPICS Sport Steve Mitchell / EMPICS Sport / EMPICS Sport

Indeed, during Thauvin’s time with Marseille, he was frequently criticised for a similar approach.

Former Nantes goalkeeper Jean-Paul Bertrand-Demanes even famously said that the player has “chickpeas for brains” and lacks the mentality to fulfil his potential.

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