Norway manager explains Erling Haaland absence for Ireland game

MISSING: Manchester City's Erling Haaland will miss Norway's friendly game against Ireland. Pic: PA

Norway manager Ståle Solbakken has explained the absence of Erling Haaland for Thursday’s game against Ireland – confirming the decision was made in collaboration with Manchester City.

The allure of the Premier League’s top scorer was apparent to the party during their airport transfer to their Stillorgan hotel when Solbakken was informed that tickets were being offloaded by Irish fans.