Expert can’t believe Erling Haaland quotes from Man City – ‘the last thing you want’
Noel Whelan has rejected Rodri’s claims about Man City new boy Erling Haaland needing to “adapt” by coming short for the ball at times.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted “the last thing you want” is to utilise the 22-year-old in a similar role to Tottenham striker Harry Kane.
Haaland notched his first Man City hattrick against Crystal Palace on Saturday (27 August) as Pep Guardiola’s side completed a stunning fightback to win 4-2.
However, as quoted by The Telegraph post-match, Citizens midfielder Rodri suggested the hitman “needs to adapt” and “do better at being involved in the game” by coming short to receive the ball.
Haaland has already registered six goals and one assist in four games since joining Man City for a reported £51million transfer fee.
Whelan insisted the Norway international is best when playing on the shoulder of defenders.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’s an absolute beast.
“The size of him, the pace, the quality, the strength, the finishing. The last thing you want is Haaland dropping into midfield to win the ball deep.
“When you see the goals he scored, he’s on the shoulder of defenders and the ball is played in quickly.
“When that happens, he’s clinical – and that’s what makes him so dangerous and potent.
“All they need to do is make sure that pass hits him when he makes the move. It was basically one touch, pass – and Haaland does the rest.
“The last thing you want to do is have him playing like Harry Kane at Tottenham, dropping into areas where he’s not affecting the game in the right places.
“If you feed him, he will score.”
In other news, pundit claims Kalvin Phillips may be set for new Man City role after confirmed news.