Man City striker Erling Haaland has forced an awkward situation for one of his Norway team-mates as they prepare to take on England at the World Cup at the weekend
Soccer: FIFA World Cup: Norway ErlingHaaland (9) and Alexander Sorloth (7) shake hands vs Brazil during the Round of 16 match at New York Jersey Stadium. East Rutherford, NJ 7/5/2026CREDIT: Erick W. Rasco (Photo by Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X164920 TK1)
Erling Haaland's quality means Alexander Sorloth cannot play up front for Norway(Image: Erick W. Rasco, Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
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Erling Haaland has ensured some frustration remains in the Norway squad despite the nation's unprecedented World Cup run. The Manchester City striker's quality has left the likes of fellow striker Alexander Sorloth 'irritated' with the tactical accommodations required.
Sorloth's father has disclosed that the Atletico Madrid striker has been left frustrated ahead of their World Cup clash with England. Former Norway star Goran Sorloth has suggested that Stale Solbakken's utilisation of his son has exasperated the ex-Crystal Palace striker.
Due to goal-scoring powerhouse Haaland, 25, spearheading the attack, the striker has been compelled to operate out wide for Norway and was withdrawn during half-time of their famous 2-1 victory over Brazil. The Manchester City star netted a match-winning brace as the record holders were knocked out, establishing a tantalising encounter with 1966 World Cup winners, England.
Ahead of the fixture, it has emerged that Sorloth, who featured 20 times for Palace netting just once, was left irritated by the choice from Solbakken to substitute him at half-time for Fulham playmaker Oscar Bobb during the round of 16 encounter.
Goran told Dagbladet: "He gets irritated about being taken off, he should be every day all year round. Regardless of whether it's the World Cup, the European Championship or a regular international match."
Despite being frustrated by Solbakken's choice, the striker's father maintained there was no ill-feeling over the incident. He said: "I don't think there was a heated discussion with Stale Solbakken. They know each other so well that there was talk of exchanging things and things. They are still the best friends in the world. Together they believe that they can go far."
The 30-year-old has yet to add to his 26 international goals at the World Cup as Norway embark on a historic run where they are within, at least, 90 minutes of a semi-final at the major tournament.
A male athlete, clad in a red and blue uniform with distinctive patterns, appears to be engaged in an intense moment on a soccer field, with spectators seated in the background, creating an atmosphere of competition and focus.
Alexander Sorloth has been forced out wide(Image: Icon Sport via Getty Images)
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England stand in their way (July 22, 10pm kick-off) after beating Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca Stadium on Monday, with Thomas Tuchel's side needing to shackle Haaland if they are to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
The City striker has enjoyed a remarkable tournament so far, emerging as the driving force behind their progress as World Cup dark horses. The 25-year-old is in contention for the golden boot and sits just one goal behind current front-runner Lionel Messi, who inspired defending champions Argentina to a memorable comeback victory over Egypt with a goal and an assist in their 3-2 win.
Miami, Florida plays host to the quarter-final, but Norway's arrival in the Magic City has been described as a 'boys' trip' by Sorloth. A bout of illness now threatens to derail their chances of making further history on their landmark World Cup run.
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Goalkeeper Orjan Nyland revealed that Norway's team doctor has been "very busy" in the days leading up to the clash between the two European nations. Nyland told James Corden: "I can confirm that it's true, we've had our issues, we're doing the best we can and the team doctor is very busy at the moment.
"I have no idea what the source was, we did have some time off so maybe someone contracted something. Hopefully everything goes well and we face England with a fully rested squad on Saturday."
Norwegian outlet Dagbladet has reported that exhaustion has been a factor, while illness has swept through the camp during the tournament. However, the psychological battle ahead of the quarter-final continues as the Norwegian team doctor moved to downplay any health concerns disrupting their preparations.
He said: "Very little fuss considering that we have been close together for almost six weeks. So great that they believe this. We are in control."