Jeff Stelling has backed Dan Burn to be England's secret weapon against Erling Haaland when the Three Lions face Norway in the World Cup quarter-final. The former Sky Sports presenter believes Thomas Tuchel should start the Newcastle defender due to his physical presence and impressive record against the Manchester City striker.
Burn's Impact Against Mexico
Burn made his World Cup debut as a substitute in England's dramatic 3-2 win over co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca. Despite playing with 10 men for much of the second half after Jarell Quansah's red card, Burn's introduction in the 75th minute helped secure the victory. The 34-year-old made eight defensive contributions in just 26 minutes, including six clearances – a World Cup record for a substitute brought on that late in a match.
Tuchel switched to a back-five formation, bringing on Burn and Djed Spence, a move widely praised. Burn's performance justified his controversial inclusion in the squad, with many questioning his selection given his age and lack of international experience.
Stopping Haaland
Norway have been one of the tournament's most potent attacks, with only France scoring more goals at the 2026 World Cup. Haaland is tied for the Golden Boot lead with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe on seven goals after scoring twice against Brazil. Stelling, speaking on talkSPORT, argued that Burn's physicality makes him ideal to nullify the 6ft 5in striker.
"I had this theory, that when we come around to playing Norway with the aerial threat of Erling Haaland… Dan Burn came on last night and everyone who watched the game will tell you Dan Burn was fantastic when he came on," Stelling said. "Well, I think he might play against Norway, because he has the physicality to play against Erling Haaland."
At 6ft 7in, Burn is one of the few defenders who can match Haaland's height. Stelling highlighted Burn's outstanding personal record: in eight games against Haaland over the last four years, the Norwegian has scored only once.
Defensive Shuffle Required
Tuchel will be forced to make changes to his defence for the quarter-final. Quansah is suspended following his red card against Mexico, while Reece James is an injury doubt. This could open the door for Burn to make his first start of the tournament.
Burn himself expressed his joy at playing in the World Cup. "I don't know if we had planned for this scenario – but I knew that I was being brought here for a certain reason," he said after the Mexico win. "I have been desperate to get on the pitch, I didn't want to leave the World Cup without getting on there. What he [Tuchel] expected from me, knowing my height, knowing how I defend, it's blocking shots, blocking crosses, it was really trying to grind it out and I think that shows the character in the team. I am very proud to play for England at a World Cup, I never thought I'd be saying that."
