Norwegian boss apologises for being so good
Northern Ireland manager Ian Baraclough has warned Scotland that they will have their work cut out trying to tame Norway’s formidable strike force.
Baraclough’s side were thrashed 5-1 in their opening UEFA Nations League clash on Monday, with Celtic’s Mo Elyounoussi scoring and the irrepressible Erling Haaland and Alexander Sorloth both grabbing doubles.
Haaland has picked up where he left off after notching an incredible 44 goals in 40 appearances for both RB Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund last season.
His strike partner, Sorloth, is just as prolific after netting 33 times for Turkish side, Trabzonspor, on loan from Crystal Palace last season.
Steve Clarke’s side could face the Norwegians for a place at Euro 2020 should they overcome Israel in next month’s playoff semi-final, and former Motherwell boss Baraclough admits any team would struggle to contain them.
He said: “If there was any phone call from Steve, then I’d happily try and answer any of his questions.
“They’re a talented team, for sure. They have some players that really stand out. “They were on song the other night. “Everyone will pick Haaland as the stand-out player, and he’s certainly better than what I was expecting.
“His standard of finishing was top-class. “That was complemented by another big lad up front, Sorloth from Crystal Palace, who has been on loan out in Turkey.
“With him and Josh King as well, their front line is certainly something to be savoured in European football.
“It’s one of the nations coming into what is regarded as the golden generation.
“I spoke to their manager, Lars Lagerback, before the game, and a little bit after as well.
“He almost apologised for the amount of riches he’s got up front at the moment!”