Erling Haaland has failed to hit the lofty heights of last season. Yet, despite that, the striker looks set to walk away with the Golden Boot after recording 25 goals this campaign. But goals have never been a problem for the striker as it was his ‘general play‘ that was bombarded with criticism. None more than Roy Keane, who likened Haaland’s ‘all-round’ game to that of a League Two player! Many found this disrespectful and Tony Cascarino is the latest to voice his displeasure at the comparison.

On the talkSPORT show, Cascarino revealed his surprise at Keane’s comments. He said, “I understand that he (Erling Haaland) has got some sort of limitations.” But the pundit added that every part of the striker is ‘Premier League’ level. He continued, “It’s not just the goals and the finishes. It’s his physical presence that will drive teams. His ability to run 100 meters in a really quick time. Everything about him, his heading ability, left foot, right foot.”

Roy Keane’s comments came after Manchester City’s draw against Arsenal. Erling Haaland did not have the best of outings but Cascarino believes that one match shouldn’t define a player. He even backed up the stance with a mighty fine example. The pundit said, “I watched Cristiano Ronaldo a couple of times live and didn’t play particularly well. One of the world’s best players ever you know.  You can’t be perfect in every game.”

Per Cascarino, using rare bad games to make a statement is bad logic. Moreover, he also hinted that the ‘beef’ between Erling Haaland’s family and Roy Keane might have played a part in the comments. But what exactly is the story between the two parties? Let’s dive in.

The ‘family’ beef between Erling Haaland and Roy Keane

The story between the Haalands and Roy Keane started back in 1997. Manchester United was playing against Leeds. Roy Keane was making a run to the opposition box before being fouled by Erling Haaland’s father, Alfie. Keane was on the ground and wreathing in pain. The Norwegian didn’t look amused and shouted at his opponent for faking an injury. However, Keane was genuinely injured and ruptured his cruciate ligament! He didn’t play again in the season but laid out his plans for revenge.

The Manchester Derby of 2001 saw the two opponents come face to face again. Alfie Haaland now in Manchester City was playing as a right back. During the match, Alfie made a ball clearance but received a full-blooded tackle from Roy Keane. The Irishman got a 3-match ban and a significant fine. On the other hand, Alfie’s career was never the same and he eventually retired later. Moreover, everyone received the shock of their lives when Keane admitted that the tackle was premeditated!

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However, Alfie seems to have moved on and is enjoying the success of Erling Haaland at Manchester City. But, can the same be said for Roy Keane? Even former teammate Rio Ferdinand believes Keane’s issues with Erling Haaland are due to their ‘family’ beef.

What is your view on the story? Let us know below.