Haaland in 'uncharted territory' after three goals in 12 Premier League games

Erling Haaland's numbers have dipped by his own sky-high standards. After a blistering start that produced 19 goals in his first 17 Premier League appearances, he has managed just three in his last 12 league games. The draw with West Ham was another frustrating afternoon: Manchester City dominated large spells of possession but Haaland struggled to find the net, leaving City nine points behind Arsenal.

"This is uncharted territory for him, those type of numbers," Joe Cole said, adding: "He's not been that low since he was probably about seven." Former City defender Joleon Lescott suggested the issue is not solely down to the striker, pointing to a frayed supply line and a lack of cohesion among the players around him.

He highlighted that Haaland still has 29 goals in 41 games [in all competitions], while acknowledging the recent run of form has been poor. Pep Guardiola has defended his number nine, noting the connections and interactions that create chances and insisting Haaland will find his rhythm again.

erling haaland, premier league, manchester city, goal drought, west ham, joe cole, joleon lescott, pep guardiola, team cohesion, supply line