- Erling Haaland scored a stunning hat-trick against West Ham on Saturday
- Man City’s star player has been in sensational form for Pep Guardiola this season
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Micah Richards and Jamie Redknapp were unanimous in their praise for Erling Haaland after he scored a stunning hat-trick in Manchester City’s 3-1 Premier League win over West Ham on Saturday.
Last season’s Golden Boot winner is aiming to win the Premier League’s top individual scorer award for the third season in a row and has started the new campaign in sensational form.
The Norwegian’s three goals at the London Stadium take his tally to seven from just three top-flight games as City bid to become the first team to win five consecutive league titles.
Haaland is a rarity among the Premier League’s best players, with Norway failing to qualify for Euro 2024, meaning he was given an extended summer break while most of City’s European stars were playing in the competition.
The break appears to have been best for the 24-year-old, who is already causing chaos among opposition defenders as they struggle to stop Haaland’s goal-scoring run.
Erling Haaland continued his sensational form by scoring twice against West Ham on Saturday
The Golden Boot holder aims to win the individual award for the third year in a row
Haaland has now scored seven goals in City’s first three Premier League games
In City’s opening goal against the Hammers, Haaland played a pass into Bernardo Silva’s goal and then chipped home over the keeper.
Haaland’s second shot was far more spectacular, as he connected with the ball inside the penalty area and then fired into the roof of the net through a crowded penalty area.
Redknapp raved about Haaland’s first-half performance against Julen Lopetegui’s side and was impressed with his excellent finishing.
“What I liked about his performance today was his first touch. For the first goal, it makes him open his body and roll it into the corner,” he told Sky Sports.
Former Liverpool star Redknapp raved about Haaland’s first half against West Ham
‘On the second goal he hit the ball back to his left foot with his right foot and that’s how he was able to score.
“The first goal was a sight to behold. That was a beast. Today was a sight to behold,” Redknapp added.
Former City defender Richards also offered similar praise, claiming Haaland is benefiting from the summer as he can relax and recharge.
“I think the break in the summer has done him a world of good. His energy, his body language is excellent,” Richards said.
