Erling Haaland gave the type of response only he can when asked to talk through his penalty routine after his winning strike for Manchester City.
The Norwegian striker has developed a reputation over recent seasons for his somewhat deadpan response when questioned by members of the media. In completing a move to the Etihad Stadium in the summer, Premier League fans have got a taste of that for their own this season.
Haaland’s interesting approach to media work was on show once again on Saturday as he was asked to explain his routine ahead of what proved to be his game-winning penalty against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
The reporter at the game asked the striker: “How did you feel stood over that penalty? I saw a little look to the heavens - part of your routine maybe?”
The Manchester City man then replied: “No, I didn’t. I looked at the screen. Honestly.”
When probed further on where he looked, Haaland then cranked up the awkwardness. He said: “Just to… I don’t know. Where else should I look? I don’t have to look at the keeper. I try to breathe and to be in the moment. Yeah, that’s what I did.”
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Haaland’s penalty saw City secure three points on what threatened to be a tricky evening initially for the reigning Premier League champions. It saw Pep Guardiola's men reduce the gap to current leaders Arsenal to just two points - albeit temporarily.
The goal at Selhurst Park was Haaland’s 27th Premier League of the campaign. He further revealed that he is relishing the challenge of a title race with Arsenal between now and the end of the campaign.
“I enjoy it, this is England, this is what I've been watching my whole life, I enjoy every single second being in it,” he added. “It's good to be in the middle of it.
“In the end another three points, to win games and keep performing is not easy. We saw Bournemouth beat Liverpool. Every game is a fight.
“Every single game, Leipzig is the next game and then it's Burnley. We have to win games. We have to focus on ourselves because we have them [Arsenal] at home, we have a lot of games left, so nothing is decided yet.”
Guardiola praised Haaland for his attitude in the aftermath of City’s success. Speaking after the game, the Spaniard said: "One of the best things of knowing him well together is he can miss one chance and he won't get depressed, or he's not sad. And he's positive - next one.
"He knows he will have the chance and he'll be there. That's an incredible attribute as a football player and as an athlete.”
