Erling is so keen to get his kicks in
ERLING HAALAND admits he has never spoken to his dad Alfie about one of the most infamous tackles in Manchester derby history.
Haaland Snr was on the end of a vicious Roy Keane lunge at Old Trafford in April 2001, which, the Norwegian midfielder believes, ended his career.
Erling will follow in his father’s footsteps when he walks out for his first Manchester derby, following his £51million arrival from Borussia Dortmund in the summer.
But the striker revealed that he has not turned to his dad for advice.
Haaland said: “I haven’t spoken to my father about this game, but I know he will be in the stands watching.
“It means so much to all of the supporters – and, as a fan, I know that. We want to make them proud on Sunday.
“We know it is going to be a tough game, but I am excited to play in this derby.
“It’s another game, but I also know that derby games are so much more intense.
“These games mean everything to the fans. It is the first time I have played in the Manchester derby after watching so many on TV with my father and I cannot wait. It will be a special moment for me.”
Haaland, who rejected the chance to move to Old Trafford, has scored an incredible 14 goals in his first 10 City appearances.
He added: “Of course, it would be special to score against United, but my focus is on every game.
“If I am scoring goals and playing well, it means it is going to help the team achieve our aims.
“Anything is possible in a derby game and we are all going to have to be at our best to get anything from this game.
“What I have always known and am now experiencing is that in the Premier League every game is tough.
“You have to be at your best and if you aren’t then you will be punished.”