John Arne Riise has hit back at Roy Keane’s recent criticism of Norway and Man City superstar Erling Haaland.
Keane was scathing when comparing Haaland to a ‘League Two player’ while claiming that he needs to improve his general play.
Haaland’s fellow countryman John Arne Riise didn’t mince his words as he rubbished Keane’s critiques of the striker.
And Riise, known for his thunderous left-foot, has said that Arsenal star Martin Odegaard is a more complete footballer than Premier League great Dennis Bergkamp, given his Euro 2024 prediction plus more.
You Don’t Finish 2nd in the Ballon d’Or Being A S**t Player
I was surprised that Roy Keane described Haaland's general play as that of a League Two player. I watch those kinds of shows and he's known for saying controversial things that people don't take too seriously. He's brilliant in the studio but some things he says surprise people, but I thought that was too far.
You have a guy who broke all records last year. You can see he is strong at keeping the ball and laying off. But his job is to score goals, and you don't finish second in the Ballon d'Or by being a s*** player. His pace, his power, his aerial threat is brilliant and his technique when he shoots is excellent. You can't do that if you're a League Two player.
I can understand why he tried to say it, to make a headline, but he took it too far.
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Roy Keane Should Stick With Punditry Instead of Going For Ireland Job
I think Keane should keep doing punditry instead of getting into management. He looks like he's enjoying punditry. He's more outspoken than he used to be and is doing more shows. Being a manager brings so much pressure, with critics and the threat of the sack.
He looks like he's enjoying it and he's doing a good job, I love Keane, you never know what's coming.
A Norway Golden Era?
There is Oscar Bobb at Manchester City, he is another youngster doing well. We have a lot of good youngsters but that final step is always the hardest one. We also have Antonio Nusa.
But it's about being able to play for top clubs and being very good is not good enough, you need to be exceptional. I think a lot of young players are looking at Odegaard and Haaland to go their way, but it is really difficult and I am not sure who is ready for that step up.
What Would a Haaland Partnership With Solskjaer Have Looked Like?
Haaland and Solskjaer are unbelievable finishers in the box. Solskjaer could drop deep and link up, whereas Haaland plays in behind. I would have liked to see Haaland and John Carew together up front.
Haaland Will Be Norway’s Greatest Ever Player – If He Isn’t Already
If he isn't now, then Erling Haaland will be the greatest-ever Norwegian player. We have a player who came second in the Ballon d'Or and many thought he should have won it. The way he has taken football in the last few years is amazing.
In my opinion, it doesn't get any bigger than what Haaland has done. To come from a small country and do what he's done. His challenge now is to keep doing it for many years to come.
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Odegaard More Complete Than Bergkamp & Ozil
Odegaard is a more complete player than Bergkamp and Ozil. Martin has more to his game than they have, more complete when it comes to football. I think he has improved his defensive skills and his leadership. Bergkamp was outstanding, maybe the one player along with Thierry Henry, who Arsenal fans look at as their best ever.
But Martin has the potential to be up there with them, but it depends on his legacy when he leaves Arsenal. But I think Martin is a more complete player, if you look as a whole, he's getting there.
Euro 2024 Prediction
I think England, with the offensive players they have, have not had a chance as big as this for a very long time. But you can't look past France, they are powerful and have pace. If I'm going to guess, I think it will be between England and France.
I would love England to win because of the history of English football and because it means so much to the fans. It would be brilliant for football. It depends on England's defence, who is fit and on form, because if they play France in the final I'd be worried about the pace and power of the France attack against England's defence but I hope they win it.
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