Erling Haaland ‘not on the same planet’ as Harry Kane! Man City star singled out for more criticism after Aston Villa benching as Bayern Munich forward told he could play ‘No.10’

After being dropped from the starting line-up against Aston Villa, the Norwegian forward has been told that his qualities pale when compared to Kane. The English skipper was judged as a more complete player than Haaland as the former Tottenham forward can still be lethal with his all-round capabilities when he is starved of service in attack.

In theESPN FC show, Craig Burley while comparing Haaland to Kane, said: "I don't think it is any surprise that some of Haaland's all-round game has room for improvement. He is about physicality and goals. When it comes to all-around play - I am not suggesting he is a worse goalscorer - he is not on the same planet as a Harry Kane. In terms of his link-up play, Kane can drop off and play passes like a No.10. He can play 50-60-70-yard ping passes, round the corner, you name it.

"Karim Benzema, drifting around the pitch when he was at Real Madrid. Flicking little balls and linking up play. But that is not Haaland. He needs the goals to keep those numbers up because lots of his other game needs polishing."

Haaland has been getting a lot of stick since his unimpressive performance against Arsenal after he missed a couple of gilt-edged chances. Manchester United legend, Roy Keane, described him as a 'League Two' striker after the 1-1 draw with the Gunners and after the benching against Villa, the chorus has just got louder.

Despite the criticism targetted at Haaland, the Norwegian has found the net 29 times in 35 appearances across competitions. He will be hoping to find his scoring boots once again when City face Crystal Palace on Saturday in their next Premier League encounter.