Erling Haaland issues warning to Arsenal after beating Liverpool at Anfield

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland admitted that he has not been at his best lately following his team's win against Liverpool on Sunday, but he is determined to improve

Erling Haaland scored and provided an assist on Sunday(Image: Getty Images)

Erling Haaland has conceded that his recent performances have been subpar, but he's issued a warning to Manchester City's rivals that he's ready to deliver "what everyone deserves and expects" from him.

Haaland is not making any excuses for his recent form, but he did score the decisive goal in City's 2-1 victory at Anfield on Sunday, helping his team stage a late comeback against Liverpool. He also assisted Bernardo Silva's equalizer, allowing the visiting fans to celebrate their first win at the ground since 2003 and propelling the Blues back into the title race.

City has won at Anfield in the meantime, but it was during the coronavirus pandemic when fans were not allowed inside the stadium.

With 21 Premier League goals this season, Haaland is four ahead of Brentford's Igor Thiago in the Golden Boot race.

However, it's been nine league matches since he last found the net from open play.

There's been speculation that the Norwegian, who has had a demanding schedule over the past six months with both City and his national team, who are preparing for next summer's World Cup, might be feeling the strain.

Haaland hit City's winner(Image: Getty Images)

This wasn't helped by Omar Marmoush's absence due to his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations during the busiest part of the season.

However, Haaland has dismissed fatigue as an explanation for his recent form and is focusing on self-improvement - and pushing City closer to league leaders Arsenal.

"I haven't scored enough goals since the start of this year, you can say, and I know that I need to improve," said the 25-year-old.

"I know I need to be more sharp, better at all of this and this is something that I have to work on.

"I have to keep going because this is what everyone deserves and expects.

"I don't want to speak about why I haven't performed. I don't think there's any excuse. Fatigue is a lot is in the head. It's a lot of games.

"Look at the schedule, it's not easy, and for me, it's about staying fit, don't get injured.

"That's the most important thing. And try to be ready to help the team."