Pundit can’t believe Man City could start half-fit Erling Haaland as footage emerges
Noel Whelan has insisted Erling Haaland won’t start for Man City against Leicester on Saturday (29 October) even if he is “95% fit”.
The former Leeds striker was speaking exclusively to Football Insider ahead of City’s clash against struggling Leicester on Saturday (29 October).
As seen in footage posted to Twitter (26 October), Haaland could be seen limping as he reportedly arrived for assessment at the Manchester Institute of Health & Performance.
The Daily Star‘s report (26 October) claims the former Borussia Dortmund was “cleared of serious damage to his foot” despite his obvious discomfort.
Haaland, who has scored 22 goals in 16 games this season, was hooked at half-time during Tuesday’s (25 October) 0-0 draw with his old side in the Champions League.
Alvarez has scored three Man City goals thus far despite starting just four games across all competitions.
Whelan claimed the former River Plate star can “shine” in the potential absence of the Norway international.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “With the way Haaland has started at Man City, it’s taken the shine away from Alvarez.
“There’s absolutely no doubt for me. Even if he’s 85%, 95% fit – there’s no way Pep Guardiola will start him.
“He doesn’t need to. It’s a difficult game away at Leicester, but you’ve got to think that they have enough in the tank to come through with a win.
“This could be Alvarez’s time to shine himself. Without the Haaland limelight shining, this could be his chance to get the accolades.”
In other news, Gabby Agbonlahor digs at “sloppy” Kevin de Bruyne after what he spotted at Man City.