Premier League news: John Arne Riise backs Erling Haaland to break Alan Shearer’s scoring record

Former Liverpool defender John Arne Riise has backed compatriot Erling Haaland to break Alan Shearer’s long-standing Premier League scoring record.

In an exclusive sitdown interview with footitalia.com, Riise argued that the Manchester City striker’s mentality and consistency make such a milestone realistic.

Riise further offered warm praise for Norwegian starlet Sverre Nypan’s encouraging progress at Middlesbrough, noting the midfielder’s maturity and influence on games while still cautioning that it is too early to predict exactly how high his potential might carry him.

Here, Sports News Blitz writer Michael Davey takes a look at Riise’s comments.

Haaland backed to break records

After just three and a half seasons in England, Haaland has racked up 100 league goals in 112 appearances for the Citizens, becoming the fastest player to reach a century of strikes in the process.

“I’m quite sure he’s gonna beat all the records that are there to beat,” Riise said regarding Haaland’s future in the English top flight.

“I think he will beat my appearance records quite easily, because I think he has decided to target some records in the Premier League.

“When it comes to goals, I think he wants to beat Alan Shearer’s record for most Premier League goals.

“I know obviously he signed a nine-and-a-half-year deal with Man City. So, if he’s gonna play for another nine years, he’s going to clean up on all the records in front of him.”

Riise cautiously optimistic about Nypan

Central midfielder Nypan signed for City in the summer, arriving from Norwegian side Rosenborg before being loaned to Middlesbrough in the Championship, where he has made 14 promising league appearances.

“He’s a great player, but I think the step from Rosenborg to Manchester City is big,” Riise warned on Nypan. 

“Obviously, Middlesbrough is a step-up too. It’s a big club in its own right, and he’s done well so far, but he’s a great player – he’s got the technique, good vision, and he’s a smart player.

“He would suit the style of Pep’s football perfectly, but whether he’s good enough or has the right physique for the very top, I’m not quite sure yet.

“I think also that’s why they sent him on loan to Boro, to see how he handles that kind of physical side of the game.

“Obviously, he’s a good player, but I’m still not quite sure how good he will be for Man City because he needs to grow and get to a higher level.

“But he’s a young player, so he’s going to have a great career in front of him. Hopefully, he will be successful at Man City.”

READ MORE: Soccer analysis: Erling Haaland hits 100: The race to catch Alan Shearer