Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand claims he would have Erling Haaland in his 'pocket'

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand claims he would have had Erling Haaland in his back pocket during his hay day.

Haaland broke Mohamed Salah's record of 32 goals in a single Premier League season against Arsenal, with the Norwegian needing just two more to smash the top-flight's all-time record.

Haaland caused the Gunners' all manner of problems during Manchester City's 4-1 win on Wednesday, as Pep Guardiola eyes his third successive league title in charge.

However, Ferdinand reckons he could deal with the 22-year-old, believing Sir Alex Ferguson's side would have the beating of Guardiola's current team.

What did he say?

When comparing Ferguson's Red Devils' to Guardiola's reigning champions, Ferdinand told BT Sport: "Tough. It would be tough games."

"Pep's teams are hard to play against, I mean, we were annihilated by his Barcelona team," the former England international admitted.

However, Ferdinand backed his former teammates, suggesting they would win 3-1.

"So this team with the weapons they have, with Haaland and De Bruyne connecting it would be a difficult one but I think we'd win 3-1," he said, prompting laughter laughter in the studio.

Then asked about Haaland, Ferdinand jokingly pointed to his pocket, exclaiming: "He would be in there somewhere!"

However, the 44-year-old conceded: "We would have to fight and go toe-to-toe with them. They're a great team and you cannot deny that."

Manchester City are eyeing up a historic treble this season - with only Ferguson having achieved such a feat in 1999.

Guardiola's side still face a tricky run-in, but their Premier League destiny is firmly in their own hands following their win over title-rivals Arsenal.

In the meantime, they must face Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final, before coming up against local rivals Manchester United in the FA Cup final.

Topics: Rio Ferdinand, Erling Haaland, Manchester City, Manchester United, Pep Guardiola, Sir Alex Ferguson, Premier League, Football

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno