Norway manager reveals how Erling Haaland has reacted to injury setback
Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has revealed Erling Haaland was left ‘deeply frustrated’ by the injury setback which has ruled him of his nation’s upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers.
After missing out on the World Cup, it was hoped that Haaland would play a lead role, alongside Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard, in ensuring Norway make it to next summer’s European Championships in Germany.
Haaland reported for duty after scoring his sixth hat-trick and second in the space of four days in Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final thrashing of Burnley, but was sent home from Norway’s Marbella training camp on Tuesday.
According to The Times, Haaland’s withdrawal is only a precautionary measure and it remains unclear as to how quickly he will return to City for tests.
Asked how the Premier League’s newest goalscoring sensation had reacted to being unavailable for his country, Solbakken said: ‘He was affected and deeply frustrated. He has done everything he can [to get fit].’
Norway face Spain on Saturday before a trip to Georgia the following midweek which falls just four days before City are due to be back in domestic action against Liverpool.
Norway doctor Ola Sand added: ‘We hoped that this was just an injury that would carry over to Saturday.
‘But after doing tests and examinations yesterday it became clear that he will not make it to the games against Spain and Georgia. It is better that he receives medical follow-up at the club.’
Haaland has scored 42 goals in 37 appearances this season having shattered the previous record for most goals in a single season by a City player, a record which had been held by Tommy Johnson for 94 years.
Pep Guardiola’s side also face Bayern Munich across two legs on 11 April and 19 April in their huge Champions League quarter-final tie.
City trail Arsenal by eight points in the Premier League title race, having played a game less than the league-leading Gunners.
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