Man City vs West Ham: Guardiola heaps praise on Haaland after historic night

Erling Haaland scored with a perfectly executed finish midway through the second half, to double Man City's advantage over West Ham after Nathan Ake’s opener. 

That goal brought the Norwegian up to 35 league goals for the season, beating the long-standing record of 34 shared by Alan Shearer and Andrew Cole.

The 22-year-old goal-machine was serenaded by fans and afforded a special guard of honour at full-time by staff and teammates. 

City boss Guardiola couldn’t hide his admiration for the blonde striking menace after yet another record-breaking performance.

“He deserved the guard of honour, said Guardiola.

 “All the team deserved it. Erling is a special striker. Yes, we are very pleased for him. He’s a joy to work with and to be with.

“Everyone is happy to have him with us. This record will be broken again. Maybe by him in the future or by another one. But he will score a lot of goals. 

“When there is a special occasion, we have to show how special it is.

“He has beaten incredible top strikers - Shearer and Cole. It’s special."

Man City now move back to the top of the Premier League after this 3-0 win over West Ham and could extend that lead further when they take on Leeds on Saturday.