‘Incredible’ Haaland up there with Aguero, Kane: England’s John Stones

RIYADH: Having played alongside two record breakers in Sergio Aguero and Harry Kane, Manchester City and England defender John Stones is well placed to judge the best goalscorers.

And he has put Erling Haaland firmly among the legendary striking duo after his astonishing start to life at the Etihad Stadium.

The Norwegian, 22, has netted 42 times since his $53 million (£42.5 million) arrival from Borussia Dortmund, including six hat-tricks and five goals in the 7-0 Champions League last-16 win over RB Leipzig.

During his 10 years at City, Aguero became the club’s leading scorer with 260 goals, while Kane is also now the all-time top scorer for both Tottenham Hotspur and England after another impressive campaign.

Speaking exclusively to Arab News, Stones said: “I’ve been so lucky to play with all three of them. I think they are so different and unique in their own way but, at the end of the day, they all score goals.

“I know it’s so early for Erling, but what an incredible player. He’s got to be up there with the best I’ve played with, like Sergio, and Harry.

“He’s got so much time ahead of him and he’s an even better person, which makes what he’s doing even more special.

“I hope he can get 50 goals, just for him, and I’d love to help him get there,” he added.

The way Haaland has settled at City has been remarkable, but Stones said the club do an “incredible job” in attracting the right players to help them continue their push for trophies.

“It’s not an easy thing to do when you see what happens at other clubs,” added the 28-year-old, who joined City in 2016.

“There’s a massive bond between all of us, it kind of clicked. It’s so nice to be part of — and it translates out there on the pitch.”

That camaraderie