Erling Haaland’s ‘text’ story makes Norway doctor speak up clearly
Norway’s national team doctor has responded to claims made by a British journalist about Erling Haaland’s condition during the World Cup quarter-final against England.
Although Norway took the lead through Andreas Schjelderup in the 36th minute, they were knocked out after England’s Jude Bellingham scored twice, sending England to the semi-finals.
Haaland, who scored seven goals in the tournament, had a quiet game in Miami. Defenders John Stones and Marc Guehi, who know him well, managed to keep him under control. In a rare move, Haaland was substituted by Jorgen Strand Larsen at half-time in extra time when Norway was pushing for a goal.
The decision surprised many, but Norway’s coach Stale Solbakken said it was an easy call because Haaland was done due to a “dead leg and fatigue.”
On talkSPORT, though, Tony Cascarino suggested Haaland wasn’t feeling well before the game. Norway had dealt with some illness during the tournament, and even England’s Declan Rice was sick and bedridden for three days before playing. Cascarino said he heard from a reliable source that Haaland was also unwell, which could explain his low energy and poor performance.
However, when asked, Norway’s national team doctor Ola Sand gave a firm “No” when questioned if Haaland was sick.
After their exit, Haaland and his teammates were seen enjoying themselves at a nightclub, watching rapper Flo Rida perform, showing no signs of illness.
Haaland finished the World Cup with five goals in seven games, including a memorable two-goal performance against Brazil in the round of 16. The Premier League Golden Boot winner is now set for a long rest before returning to Manchester City for the new season.