West Brom striker Charlie Austin has branded Arsenal ace Alexandre Lacazette "pathetic" over his play-acting.

Lacazette, 29, was heard screaming after he was tackled by Erik Pieters in the Gunners' 1-1 draw with Burnley last Saturday.

The Frenchman appeared to be writhing in pain after the challenge but was up on his feet and able to continue just moments later.

Gunners manager Mikel Arteta later hit back at criticism of Lacazette and accused Burnley of trying to "weaken" his players with their physical tactics.

Austin, currently on loan at QPR, is the latest person to take aim at Lacazette.

Speaking about Lacazette's scream on his Studs Up podcast, Austin said: "Pathetic, wasn't it? There was no need for it.

"It makes it more [easy to hear] because there's no fans in the stadium. Don't get me wrong, it goes on in football but we don't want to hear it do we.

"Let's be honest, a full-grown man screaming like that is ridiculous. I think it just makes the football side of it a laughing stock really.

"What's he doing? And then he gets up and continues! Stupid, man. I really don't get it, it kind of puts a sour taste to many people watching."

Asked what he thinks when he is on the pitch and an opposition player is "play acting", Austin replied: "We know that they're play acting and they're doing what they can to win a free kick.

"And I do understand that, but it's so frustrating! When you're trying to do it, it's the best thing ever - or someone in your team.

"But when it's someone else doing it and it's over the top - or even if it is someone in your team doing it - sometimes it's embarrassing. You're like 'What are you doing, mate?'

"I mean, it's too obvious. I just don't like the way he [Lacazette] was doing it. It was stupid."