Gary Neville highlighted how a certain aspect of Erling Haaland’s game aside from his brilliant brace blew him away during Manchester City’s 3-0 win against Manchester United.
While Erling Haaland tucked away both his goals with aplomb, his all-round game was outstanding during the Manchester Derby.
The Norwegian held the ball up brilliantly, brought his Manchester City teammates into play and carried the ball well when the hosts were on the break on numerous occasions.
It seemed like the 25-year-old was well up for the derby, with Haaland admitting he studied Altay Bayindir’s game as he decided to lift the ball over him for his first goal.
Despite being a lifelong United fan, Gary Neville was in awe of the star striker’s heroics as he broke down his display for Pep Guardiola’s side.
Erling Haaland smiles after Manchester City v Manchester United
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Gary Neville praises Erling Haaland’s defending during Man City vs Man United
Neville highlighted that despite being a number nine, Haaland defended excellently as Manchester City triumphed over Manchester United.
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The pundit was particularly impressed by the Leeds-born goalscorer’s defending during set-piece situations as he made a number of important clearances.
Gary Neville sang Haaland’s praises as he starred for Manchester City against Manchester United, saying live on Sky Sports: “He has been absolute standout.”
“As an ex-defender, you really appreciate when your striker gets back to help out.”
“He’s been outstanding.”
Erling Haaland’s defensive stats compared to Man United’s back five in Manchester Derby
Guardiola has demanded Haaland to become a leader this season and it seems like instructions have not fallen on deaf ears, with the two-time Premier League winner doing the dirty work at the back on Sunday.
There was a spell during the contest when the former Borussia Dortmund marksman was at the front and centre of the Sky Blues’ defence, heading and booting away every one of United’s crosses.
So much so that Haaland’s defensive stats from Manchester City’s latest triumph can be pitted against Manchester United’s back five.
DEFENSIVE STATS DURING MANCHESTER DERBY ERLING HAALAND MAN UNITED’S BACK FIVE
CLEARANCES 6 7
INTERCEPTIONS 0 10
TACKLES 0 13
DUELS WON 3/5 (60%) 24/42 (57%)
DRIBBLED PAST 1 2
Haaland completed one less clearance than Manchester United’s defence, won 60% of his duels in comparison to their tally of 57% while only being dribbled past once, which justifies why Gary Neville lauded him.
Haaland is showing his leadership qualities this season and his latest display was an example of the fact that he is ready to do whatever it takes to help City get over the line week in, week out.