Four-goal Manchester City striker Erling Haaland swats aside Roy Keane criticism

Erling Haaland swatted aside the criticism of Roy Keane after blasting Manchester City to an emphatic win over Wolves with four goals.

Former Manchester Untied midfielder Keane compared the prolific City striker to a “League Two player” when referring to his general play last month.

Haaland put those remarks aside with a devastating return to top form as City crushed Wolves 5-1 to retain control of the Premier League title race.

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“I don’t really care that much about that man, so that’s all right,” said Haaland in an interview with a broadcaster from his native Norway.

Any bitterness is likely rooted in Keane’s long-running feud with Haaland’s father Alf-Inge. Keane was notoriously sent off for a horrific tackle on Haaland senior in 2001.

Haaland stunned Wolves with a first-half hat-trick, two of which were penalties, and took his tally for the campaign to 36 in all competitions with a brilliant fourth.

Substitute Julian Alvarez wrapped up the scoring as City moved back within a point of leaders Arsenal at the top of the table with a game in hand.

“We just have to win our games now, relax tonight and focus on Fulham,” Haaland added.

Haaland scored 52 goals in his brilliant first season at City and manager Pep Guardiola insisted any drop-off in form this term is largely down to his injury problems.

Guardiola said: “He was injured. To come back to his best form, he needs time. He is so tall. He’s not like Jeremy (Doku) or Phil (Foden).

“I’m happy for his performance and his exceptional goals, and the penalties as well because we know how sometimes they are not easy.

“But the second and the fourth were unbelievable.