Newcastle United centre-back Dan Burn is on standby to face Norway's Erling Haaland in the World Cup quarter-final in Miami, after impressing in a 15-minute cameo against Mexico. The 6ft 7in defender, who has previously kept Haaland quiet in Newcastle vs Manchester City clashes, could be tasked with stopping the prolific striker.
Burn's World Cup Debut
Burn made his World Cup debut as a substitute in the last-16 win over Mexico, replacing an injured teammate. He said: "I was desperate to get on the pitch. I didn't want to leave the World Cup without getting on there. I'm very proud to play for England at a World Cup. I never, ever thought I would be saying that when I first started."
Haaland's Record Against Newcastle
Haaland has scored just one goal in ten appearances against Newcastle, often struggling against Burn's physical presence. Burn acknowledged the threat: "It does not surprise us that Norway are at this stage of the competition. They won every game in qualifiers, and they've got Haaland, one of the best strikers in the world."
Ready for the Challenge
Burn, who previously played for Darlington, is ready if called upon. "I knew that I was being brought here for a certain reason. I probably wasn't going to start but there was going to be opportunities," he said. His performance against Mexico has been hailed, with defensive stats thrilling fans.
