18 November 2023 , 19:00
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Manchester City star Erling Haaland has underlined his determination to “get back” after picking up a painful injury on international duty.
The Norwegian striker picked up an ankle issue during his nation’s 2-0 victory over the Faroe Islands. He was introduced as a substitute but was forced off with the injury.
Man City fans have since been keen for updates on his well being - particularly ahead of next weekend’s top-of-the-table clash with Liverpool. Norway doctor Ola Sand gave more information on the problem and revealed that Haaland was set to be out of the upcoming fixture against Scotland.
He said: “He is in so much pain and somewhat restricted function that the Scotland game unfortunately comes a little too early," before adding: "It was much of the same that happened against Bournemouth a week and a half ago. He has had it before too. He gets a slight twist in his ankle, where he is a bit vulnerable. It hurts a lot right away, and then it goes away pretty quickly.
“Then we'll see tomorrow how he is then. Now he will receive some treatment, then there will be peace and rest and then we will see how he is tomorrow morning. We have already spoken to City. Erling has spoken to both City and [chief doctor] Mario [Pafundi] already.”
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Now Haaland has spoken out and revealed that he is already trying his utmost to return as soon as he can. Taking to Twitter, he said: “Unfortunately, I am missing tomorrow’s game against Scotland. Wishing the boys all the best. Now treatment and trying to get back asap.”
Erling Haaland sustained an ankle injury while playing for Norway (Getty Images)Will Manchester City beat Liverpool? Share your predictions in the comments below
Man City will certainly hope that they can call upon the striker once he returns. The striker has been in sensational form this season with 17 goals in 18 appearances in all competitions.
The Premier League leaders are currently embroiled in somewhat of an injury crisis. Kevin De Bruyne has been out for an extended period.
Nathan Ake, Ederson, Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes were also all forced to pull out of international duty, while John Stones contends with an ongoing issue and Rodri is now an injury concern. Following their clash with Liverpool, Man City face a packed fixture list with games against RB Leipzig, Tottenham and Aston Villa over the next few weeks.
Back on the international front, Norway have already announced that they will not be calling up a player to replace Haaland in the squad. Manager Stale Solbakken said: “It is of course a shame that Erling will not be ready for the match on Sunday, but we will not be bringing in a replacement. This is a great opportunity for the offensive players in the squad to show off.”