Erling Haaland: Former Chelsea Star Defends Manchester City Striker After Arsenal Disaster Class

• Erling Haaland has received support from a former Chelsea forward
• The Norwegian was slammed for his subpar showing against Arsenal
• Haaland didn't muster a single shot on target in that game on Sunday

Former Chelsea forward, Chris Sutton, has vigorously defended Manchester City striker, Erling Haaland, following criticism of the latter's performance against Arsenal on Sunday.

City's failure to score at home for the first time in 58 matches across all competitions was a significant disappointment, with Haaland's display drawing particular scrutiny.

Despite having the most shots of any player on the field with four attempts, none of Haaland's efforts truly troubled Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, leaving the Premier League's top scorer looking far from his usual lethal self.

Criticism of his performance was swift after the goalless tie, with former Manchester United captain Roy Keane leading the charge with a blistering assessment of the 23-year-old.

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Roy Keane slams Haaland

Known for his candid analysis, which tends to spiral into harsh criticism, Keane did not mince words, labelling Haaland as a player of League Two standard.

"He's almost like a League Two player. That's how I look at him. His general play has to improve and it will do over the next few years," he lashed out as noted by beIN Sports.

Chris Sutton defends Haaland

But Sutton argued that City’s lack of chances was not the Norwegian’s fault and took aim at Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, and Bernardo Silva instead.

“I thought some of the criticism of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland after Sunday’s draw with Arsenal was well over the top," he told the BBC, as quoted by the Daily Post.

Sutton added: "It is not Haaland’s fault City did not create enough opportunities for him – it is down to players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva to make those chances.”

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Why Haaland's City won't win EPL

Sports Brief also provided an analysis of why Manchester City is unlikely to clinch the EPL title again this season following their goalless draw against Arsenal.

Despite winning the league crown for three consecutive seasons under Pep Guardiola's leadership, a fourth consecutive title seems improbable for Man City this term.

They face tough competition from clubs like Liverpool, who occupy the first position, and Arsenal.