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Guardiola hails Haaland attitude after two-goal debut in Man City win over West Ham

Erling Haaland made a perfect Premier League debut by scoring twice in Manchester City's 2-0 win over West Ham United.

The 22-year-old striker, signed from Borussia Dortmund this summer, bagged his first goal after 36 minutes from the penalty spot.

Slipped through by Ilkay Gundogan, Haaland showed his electrifying speed to be brought down by Alphonse Areola.

City showed they are the title favourites by dominating proceedings at London Stadium, with opportunities few and far between for the hosts.

Haaland got his second with 65 minutes on the clock, once again breaking past the defence with his speed before slotting simply past Areola.

It was an ominous warning for the rest of the league as the Norway international showed he can capitalise on the service from Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden.

And Guardiola was full or praise for Haaland after the game.

"I know how he handled a lot of criticism this week," he said at his post-match press conference.

"He was really calm, he trained really well but the way he took the ball for the penalty I said 'I like it'.

"So direct and I think if someone is taking the ball, he would punch them in the face even though they are his mates!

"And that is a pretty good sign. To be so confident, I like it."

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Freddie Taylor

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