Norway Boss Explains Haaland Substitution Amid Liverpool Injury Concerns
Norway manager Ståle Solbakken has addressed concerns surrounding Erling Haaland after the Manchester City striker was substituted during Norway’s 2-1 defeat to Portugal.
Haaland was taken off midway through the second half with the score tied at 1-1, just days before Man City’s crucial Premier League trip to Anfield to face Liverpool.
The striker appeared to signal towards the bench that he was feeling some discomfort, immediately raising concerns about a possible injury ahead of the highly anticipated clash.
However, Solbakken played down fears of a serious problem, explaining that Haaland’s substitution was mainly due to fatigue after a demanding international schedule.
«“It looked completely harmless. I think it comes down to the bigger picture — he was simply completely spent,” Solbakken said, according to NRK.»
Haaland has been heavily involved for Norway during the international break, featuring extensively across their Nations League fixtures. He has also already accumulated a significant workload for Manchester City since the start of the season.
With almost a full week to recover before the Anfield showdown, the 26-year-old is expected to have enough time to regain his energy, provided no new issue emerges.
Liverpool, meanwhile, could have their own injury concerns. Cody Gakpo is facing a race against time after picking up a knock while on international duty with the Netherlands, while Alexander Isak is also being monitored after suffering a thigh problem with Sweden.
If Haaland is fit to play, Liverpool’s defence could face one of their biggest challenges yet, with the Norwegian having started the season in impressive scoring form.
All eyes will now be on Haaland’s fitness as Manchester City prepare for their trip to Anfield.
