'He is in so much pain' - Norway issue concerning update on injured Erling Haaland ahead of Scotland Euro 2024 qualifying clash as Man City sweat on striker's fitness

The Norway Football Federation released a statement on Saturday confirming Haaland's absence for their upcoming Euro 2024 qualifier against Scotland on Sunday due to the ankle injury that he picked against Faroe Islands on Thursday.

While they stated that Haaland's injury is not too serious, they mentioned that the player is in 'a lot of pain' and hence won't play a part in the game against Scotland.

The 23-year-old goal machine came off the bench during the friendly against Faroe Islands, which Norway won 2-0. But the cameo appearance proved to be very costly for his club Manchester City who are preparing to take on old foes Liverpool in a crucial Premier League clash on November 25.

In an official statement on the striker's condition, Norway's team doctor Ola Sand said: "The injury is not serious, but he is in so much pain and somewhat restricted function that the Scotland game unfortunately comes a little too early."

Norway manager Stale Solbakken expressed his disappointment in missing his star player in the crucial qualifier, adding: "It is of course a shame that Erling will not be ready for the match on Sunday, but we will not be bringing in a replacement. This is a great opportunity for the offensive players in the squad to show off."

Pep Guardiola has several injury concerns in his squad ahead of the important Liverpool clash. Other than Haaland, star goalkeeper Ederson is also doubtful after he picked up a knock during the Chelsea clash last Sunday and was later withdrawn from the Brazil squad for their World Cup qualifiers, while midfielder Mateo Kovacic is sidelined for a number of weeks too.