Norway boss explains Erling Haaland substitution amid injury concerns ahead of Liverpool clash

Norway's head coach, Stale Solbakken, offered insight into the substitution of striker Erling Haaland during his team's 2-1 loss to Portugal in the UEFA Nations League on Sunday. The match was taking place before Manchester City was set to face Liverpool in the Premier League. Haaland was substituted midway through the second half, with the teams tied at 1-1.

As reported by The Express, Haaland made a gesture to the bench, indicating he was experiencing discomfort, which raised concerns about an injury ahead of the upcoming match at Anfield. Solbakken, when questioned about Haaland's fitness, downplayed any injury concerns, attributing the substitution to fatigue following a hectic international schedule over the past two weeks.

The 26-year-old, who has been instrumental in Norway's performances, played the full 90 minutes in three games and 75% of the match against Portugal. With nearly a week of rest before the Liverpool clash, Haaland should have enough time to recover, barring any further injury issues. Liverpool, on the other hand, will be without Cody Gakpo due to a knock he sustained during the Netherlands game, and Alexander Isak's availability is in doubt after a thigh injury he picked up for Sweden.

The Norwegian squad, led by Virgil van Dijk and Jeremy Jacquet, will be hoping to trouble City's defense during the upcoming fixture.