Thierry Henry Tells Erling Haaland How to Improve After Latest Criticism Against Manchester City Ace

• Erling Haaland was criticised yet again after he 'ghosted' against Real Madrid
• The Norwegian striker remains Manchester City’s top scorer in this campaign
• However, sections of pundits have criticised Haaland for his play off the ball

Arsenal legend, Thierry Henry, has told Manchester City's Erling Haaland how he can improve by upping one aspect of his game on the football pitch.

There is no denying the Norwegian's goal-scoring prowess, having bagged an impressive 30 goals for the Citizens across all competitions this season.

However, this has not stopped fans and pundits from calling out the former Borussia Dortmund man for his apparent vulnerability when he does not have the ball.

Former Manchester United star, Roy Keane, went to the lengths of suggesting Haaland at times was reminiscent of 'a League Two player'.

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Former Real Madrid star, Rafael van der Vaart, was the latest to join the criticism and said the striker was at times 'useless', especially off the ball.

The Dutchman's frustration came from the fact that Haaland was hardly ever involved in his team’s build up when City was going forward.

Thierry Henry’s take on Haaland

As a former striker, Thierry Henry understands Haaland’s plight.

While forwards are primarily judged by the number of goals they score, the modern game is ruthless, and at times players overall contribution to the team in other aspects is also scrutinised.

According to the Arsenal legend, Haaland can get better but needs to improve his hold-up play.

"I always, always say that I've seen strikers not scoring but playing really well for the team away from home and doing exactly what you need to for your team away from home, or even at home," Henry said on CBS Sports, per The Mirror.

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"But there is one thing that he doesn't do ever so well, and he's always shoulder to shoulder with the defender, so you can go like this, and get your foot around."

Henry believes the Man City star needs to face square-on with his hand on the defender's shoulder to create distance and protect the ball better.

"Afterwards, it's all about your quality, but you can't let the defender get their leg around you, or get an arm around you; you have to grab it first then dictate."

What next for Haaland?

Haaland will be confident Pep Guardiola still trusts him in front of goal when Manchester City takes on Luton Town at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, April 13.

Luton is one of the Norwegian’s favourite teams to play against as he scored five goals against them in February during a 6-2 FA Cup win, according to ESPN.

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Fotball pundit describes Haaland as 'useless'

Sports Brief also reported on Haaland facing criticism for his overall play after a lacklustre display in the Champions League first-leg quarter-final.

The Man City ace failed to impress during his side's visit to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium as the Premier League champions played to a draw.