Why has Haaland returned early from international duty?

Norway have released Manchester City's Erling Haaland early from international duty.

Haaland's return to his club is not injury related.

The national team said players with "particularly tight match schedules" are returning back to their clubs early.

Alexander Sorloth, Julian Ryerson and Fredrik Bjorkan are also going back to their clubs and won't play in Tuesday's friendly against New Zealand.

Man City face Everton on Saturday in the Premier League and then travel to Villarreal for their Champions League match on Tuesday, 21 October.

Haaland scored a hat-trick in Norway's 5-0 World Cup qualifier win against Israel.

Norway are in a commanding position at the top of their World Cup qualifying group as they look to qualify for their first major international tournament since 2000 and first World Cup for 28 years.

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