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Erling Haaland: Man City striker fires fitness warning at title rivals after stunning FA Cup haul

Erling Haaland: Man City striker fires fitness warning at title rivals after stunning FA Cup haul

Erling Haaland fired out a warning to Manchester City’s Premier League title rivals after scoring five goals against Luton on Tuesday night.

The striker’s haul saw the holders muscle past the Hatters after an eventful fifth-round clash at Kenilworth Road. Kevin De Bruyne laid on four assists for the Norway international, with Mateo Kovacic scoring City’s sixth goal of the evening.

Haaland has been criticised in recent weeks, particularly for missing a hatful of chances against Chelsea earlier this month.

Pep Guardiola, however, warned Haaland’s critics the former Borussia Dortmund forward will “shut your mouth” and Tuesday’s tally took him 22 goals in 29 appearances this season.

It has been a difficult season on the injury front too but the 23-year-old has warned those looking to deny City of an historic double treble that he was getting back to his best.

“We made a plan and everyone stuck to it perfectly,” he told ITV after the game.

“Well played by everyone.

"Kevin De Bruyne is massive. He is doing what he is best at. It's a pleasure playing with him. We know what we both want from each other. it clicks well. He is a smart player and I like to play with him.

"My fitness? I am getting back to my best. Finally I am feeling good. It's an amazing feeling. It's coming, we're coming. Exciting times ahead. We are ready to attack."

City welcome rivals Manchester United in a huge derby on Sunday, looking to respond to Liverpool’s result away at Nottingham Forest on Saturday.