Haaland ‘shut the mouths’ of critics

Pep Guardiola said Erling Haaland (right) had “shut the mouths” of his critics after scoring the only goal of a nervy 1-0 win for Manchester City over Brentford on Tuesday.

Just two points separate the top three in a fascinating Premier League title race as City moved to within a point of leaders Liverpool, with third-placed Arsenal one point further back with 13 games to go.

Haaland was keen to make amends for a frustrating night in front of goal as City were held 1-1 at home by Chelsea on Saturday.

The Norwegian has only recently returned from a twomonth injury layoff and Guardiola said he was also coping with the loss of his grandmother off the field.

But Haaland was more like his old self in front of goal when he raced onto Julian Alvarez’s pass to slot in his 22nd goal of the season 19 minutes from time.

“Top strikers score a lot of goals. Don’t criticise, he will shut your mouth. Sooner or later he is there,” said Guardiola.

“He was out for two months, he lost his grandmother, it is not easy for a human being.

“We spoke about the moment (missing chances against Chelsea), and I realised this later, but he didn’t say anything about the passing away of his grandmother.”

Kevin De Bruyne was left on the bench for the entire match as Guardiola revealed he has “niggles” in his hamstring.

He missed the first five months of the season with a hamstring tear. De Bruyne’s ingenuity was missed as City struggled to make their domination count despite enjoying nearly 70% possession and having 25 shots on goal.

The Bees were the last visiting side to win at the Etihad 14 months ago and had their chances to spring another huge surprise.

City remain well in the hunt to become the first side ever to win four consecutive English topflight titles.