In the world of soccer, rising stars often emerge from unexpected corners. In a recent narrative, a young striker, who plays in the EFL League too expressed his admiration for Norwegian star, Erling Haaland. In a candid conversation, Notts County forward Macaulay Langstaff opened up about his journey from the 11th tier of English soccer and his ambitions for the future. With his performance for Notts County, Langstaff has drawn comparisons that have stuck – ‘the non-league Erling Haaland.’

In an exclusive interview, Langstaff shared his journey, his admiration for Haaland, and a determination that pushes him further. Let’s dive deeper and unveil what the Notts County star had to say about his idol.

Erling Haaland, a beacon of inspiration for Langstaff

Rising through the ranks from the 11th tier to spearheading Notts County’s lineup in EFL League Two, Macaulay Langstaff has captured the attention of the soccer world quick and fast. However, it’s not just his exploits on the pitch, but his comparisons with Erling Haaland, that add a layer of intrigue to the story. Claimed as ‘non-league Haaland,’ Langstaff believes that he’s learning from the best and would like to emulate Haaland’s movements on the pitch.

In a conversation with Sky Sports, Langstaff acknowledged the comparisons between him and Erling Haaland and stated that he finds greater motivation in the numbers. Even scoring more goals than the Norwegian at a lower level would make him happy. “I’m not comparing myself to him in any way. He is my favorite player to watch, but we are levels apart and he’s probably the best striker in Europe,” Langstaff stated humbly.

“But the one motivation I can take is from his numbers. To try and stay ahead of him, because if I’m scoring more than Erling Haaland, even at a much lower level, then I’m doing something well.” Langstaff added. He continued speaking by stating that there’s one particular thing he can learn and copy from Haaland and it’s the Norwegian’s movements inside the box, that make him a lethal striker and poacher.

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“I can’t beat a 6ft 5ins defender in the air and head one in! I’m nothing compared to his physical attributes because he’s frightening. But what I can do is replicate his movements to get into those positions to score goals. His timing at how he arrives in the box, he’s the best at doing that,” the Notts County star forward stated. Langstaff has been playing staggeringly well all throughout his journey and gaining praises from all around.

Wrexham’s Ryan Reynolds praises Langstaff

Though Macaulay Langstaff plays for Wrexham’s rivals Notts County, the Red Dragons co-owner Ryan Reynolds didn’t hold himself back in praising the striker. According to the ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ documentary, Ryan Reynolds expressed admiration for Langstaff by saying, “Yeah, God that guy is good. He’s handsome as fck. He looks like he could be in Peaky Blinders.” This came forth after Notts County handed a 1-0 loss to Wrexham AFC last season and the only goal of the match was scored by Langstaff.

Langstaff was flattered after hearing his comparisons to the Peaky Blinders cast, and stated, “When Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are calling you handsome and saying you should go on Peaky Blinders, you can’t help but be complemented by that.” The forward admitted that though he hadn’t watched the documentary, it really hurt to see Wrexham pip Notts County for the National League title last season.

As he strives to stay ahead of the formidable Erling Haaland in goal-scoring feats, the ‘Non-League Erling Haaland’ saga unfolds as a testament to Langstaff’s enduring spirit.

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