Manchester City striker Erling Holand reacted to criticism about the number of touches he had on the ball.
In his second season for City, Holand scored 36 goals in all competitions, which is very impressive, but at the same time pales in comparison with Erling’s 52 goals in the last campaign.
Holand was often criticized during the season. Some experts pointed out that at times Erling looks isolated from the rest of the team and doesn’t touch the ball much. However, the 23-year-old Norwegian has a different opinion on this matter.
“There are always discussions about how many touches of the ball I have made. When I score, no one talks about it, but when I don’t score, people start counting my touches.”
“The way people talk about me is a part of my life, and I can’t control it. I just have to focus on what I have to do on the pitch, and my job is not to be like Rhodri, controlling the game. My job is to be in the penalty area and finish the attacks. That’s my focus, and I don’t care what people say.”
“I’m focused on helping the team. After all, football can be played without touching the ball, even if it sounds funny. You can succeed through movement, attitude, and reading the game. These are important aspects of football.”
“It’s not just about touching the ball. Of course, you have to touch the ball, but I know my role in the team,” Holand was quoted as saying by The Telegraph.