In his first Premier League season, Erling Haaland set unprecedented standards as he broke the league’s goal-scoring record. So far, the Norwegian seems to be struggling to reach the same heights in his second season. The game against Arsenal was another anonymous display, as the striker didn’t record a single shot on target while completing just seven passes! The performance attracted a lot of criticism from the likes of Roy Keane, and soccer pundit Craig Burley is the latest to take shots at the strikers’ all-round game.

Describing on the ESPN FC show, the former Chelsea star said Erling Haaland is all about physicality and goals. Burley continued, “When it comes to all-around play, and I’m not suggesting he’s (Kane) a better player, he’s a worse goal scorer, but he’s (Haaland) not in the same planet say as a Harry Kane.” 

Per the pundit, Kane could drop off and spray passes everywhere. He also brought in the name of Karim Benzema. Burley explained, “Karim Benzema drifting around the pitch when he was at Real Madrid flicking little balls and, you know, linking the play up and that’s not Erling Haaland.”

The pundit did add that Erling Haaland’s first touch and link-up play are not the best. However, in his opinion, the team suffers when the Norwegian player fails to meet the expected standards in finishing. Previously, Roy Keane too shared a similar view as he slammed the Norwegian’s ‘general play.’ Keane also labeled the striker as a ‘League Two-level’ player! However, while Haaland’s recent performances are attracting a lot of criticism, he has received backing from an unexpected source.

Manchester United legend jumps to the defense of Erling Haaland

A Manchester United icon backing a club rival from his former teammate is the last thing you would expect. But that’s exactly what transpired as Rio Ferdinand took a contrasting stance to Roy Keane’s opinion. Ferdinand said, “Listen, What Roy Keane said yesterday, I don’t think it’s anything. It’s not a surprise. Division 2 is a bit far-fetched. Let’s have it right.” Moreover, the Englishman also revealed what went wrong for the Norwegian striker in the match.

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Ferdinand explained, “He’s playing against two, and it’s like every time he goes up for a challenge, one of them is under his shirt. One of them is behind him, one of them in front of him.”

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Considering that Arsenal had Gabriel and William Saliba, two of the finest defenders in the league, man-marking Erling Haaland, perhaps that could explain the sub-par performance. Regardless, what is the issue with Haaland in your opinion? Tell us in the comments below.

Ex-Liverpool Player Comes to Erling Haaland’s Defense Against Roy Keane’s ‘League Two Player’ Comparison