Norway coach Stale Solbakken has announced plans to bench Erling Haaland for Sunday night’s 2-1 defeat to Portugal.
The Manchester City striker was feeling tired before the game, but Solbakken claims the 26-year-old wants to be in the starting XI:
“He (Haaland) was tired against Wales. That’s why we had a frank talk yesterday. We looked at the possible options.”
“He could have played the last 45 minutes against Portugal. It was a discussion. But he has a very bad mood and feeling about it… I’m very happy he could get 60 good minutes.”
Was Haaland injured in the game against Portugal?
The forward, who was replaced by Jorgen Strand Larsen with 25 minutes remaining in Porto, was seen limping off the pitch.
Solbakken questioned whether Haaland was actually injured while suggesting the withdrawal was pre-planned.
This explanation is somewhat at odds with how the player left the field, but it should be noted that he remained on the bench after being substituted, rather than coming down the tunnel to undergo a medical.
Will Manchester City be in form when they face Liverpool?
It looks like fans will have to wait for confirmation from the club to find out if Haaland has taken any knocks.
If the Norwegian is training with his teammates later this week, we’ll probably get instructions either way.
Head coach Enzo Maresca will be asked about Haaland’s preparation at the pre-game press conference. A trip to Enfield on sunday.
With the striker unavailable, it raises questions about who will play up front against Liverpool. Haaland is the only known number 9 in the first team squad.
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