Michael Owen has been told he should leave Real Madrid if he cannot accept being a squad player at the Bernabeu. The 25-year-old England striker was unhappy at his lack of first-team action last season and has been linked with a return to the Premiership.
And Real coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo said: "You can't have the attitude that you will only stay if you are playing.
"Those who want to be here just to play are better off going. If you are here it is to be a member of the squad."
Luxemburgo's criticism was also aimed at Liverpool target Luis Figo and Spanish international midfielder Guti, who have all voiced their frustration at not playing regularly.
He added: "We are always talking about Michael Owen leaving.
"Look, he has a contract here - like Luis Figo. Whether they will play or not is a different story.
"I am the one who picks the team and if I think someone should not play, then they won't play.
"If Guti said he didn't like it here and was going to go and find another club, he should have gone.
"But as he is here it is because he didn't find another team, and he should appreciate the work."
Real's imminent move for Brazilian striker Robinho is set to leave Owen even further down the pecking order.
His former club Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea are all reportedly interested in bringing him back to English football.
MMIX
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