Sorloth's father reveals striker is 'irritated' by half-time substitution ahead of Norway's World Cup clash with England

Alexander Sorloth is heading into Norway’s World Cup quarter-final against England carrying frustration, after his father revealed the Atletico Madrid striker was left ‘irritated’ by coach Stale Solbakken’s decision to substitute him at half-time of the 2-1 Round of 16 victory over Brazil.

Former Norway international Goran Sorloth told Norwegian outlet Dagbladet that his son’s anger was entirely natural. “He gets irritated about being taken off, he should be every day all year round,” he said. “Regardless of whether it’s the World Cup, the European Championship or a regular international match.”

Despite the tension, Goran was quick to play down any lasting rift between the 30-year-old and the Norway head coach. “I don’t think there was a heated discussion with Stale Solbakken,” he added. “They know each other so well that there was talk of exchanging things and things. They are still the best friends in the world. Together they believe that they can go far.”

Sorloth’s frustration stems largely from his role within the squad. With Erling Haaland leading the line, the former Crystal Palace forward — who made 20 appearances for the south London club, scoring once — has been deployed out wide rather than in his preferred central position. Haaland scored a match-winning double against Brazil to send Norway into the last eight and cement his status as the tournament’s standout player.

The Manchester City striker is competing for the Golden Boot and sits just one goal behind current pace-setter Lionel Messi, who inspired defending champions Argentina to a 3-2 comeback win over Egypt with a goal and an assist.

Sorloth himself has yet to score at this World Cup, leaving his tally at 26 international goals. Norway, however, are on a historic run — they have never previously reached a World Cup semi-final, and England stand between them and that milestone.

England qualified for the quarter-finals by beating Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca Stadium on Monday. Thomas Tuchel’s side will know that neutralising Haaland is the central challenge if they are to advance, with the quarter-final scheduled for July 22.