Erling Haaland ahead of West Ham: Concerns over the striker, new Nike boots, and his own drink

It's the question doing the rounds before every Manchester City game: Is Erling Haaland fit? This time, ahead of the big away clash against West Ham United, there's a second one: Will the Norwegian finally rediscover his goal-scoring touch? His recent outings haven't exactly been what you'd expect from a machine like him. No need to panic in Manchester, but you can sense a bit of a shift in the mood.

Guardiola: "Of course he needs goals"

Pep Guardiola, his manager, had that familiar smile during the press conference, the one he gets when he's not giving everything away. But he did drop a few hints. "He's doing well. A bit of an issue with his groin, it niggles sometimes, but he's an animal," the Catalan said. And then came the line that makes every City fan prick up their ears: "Of course he needs goals. Strikers live off them. And I can sense he desperately wants them." No surprise with a player like Haaland. The kid lives for the ball, for the back of the net bulging.

He'll be needed against West Ham, that's for sure. The Hammers are a tough opponent, especially at their home ground. No room for pretty football there, you've just got to put the ball in the back of the net. And that's exactly why City brought this lad in. I'm telling you: if he takes the field, he'll have that tunnel vision – and it's all about the finish.

What's Haaland wearing this time? The new Nike Phantom GX II

For the specialists among you: if you look closely, you'll see Haaland is now lacing up the Nike Phantom GX II Elite FG. These boots are made for him – they give you that feeling of control when you really connect with the ball. No frills, just pure power on the ball. They're limited edition, obviously, but if you're watching him on Saturday, keep an eye on his footwear. It's top-tier boot craftsmanship, specifically for blokes like him who want to smash the leather into the net.

More than just a player: Haaland the drinks entrepreneur

Speaking of limited edition: if you're interested in more than just his goals and follow his business moves, you'll know Haaland is a brand in himself. His Prime Hydration Drink – everyone's seen it standing on the shelf at the supermarket by now. Now there's the Prime Erling Haaland Limited Edition Hydration Drink 500ml including Steam-Time ThankYou. It sounds like a bit of a marketing gimmick at first, but these things are flying off the shelves. My nephew managed to get a bottle, and he's got it at home like a little trophy. 500ml of pure Haaland, so to speak. The limited edition sells out in a flash, so if you want one, you'll need to be quick. Or you could just hope Haaland puts in such a shift against West Ham that you're absolutely parched – then just drink tap water and enjoy the goals.

Haaland's background: The kid from the north

You know what's special about him? His background. Born in Leeds, raised in Norway, the son of Alf-Inge, who was also a pro. That shapes you. He's got this mix of a British fighter's heart and Norwegian calmness. On the pitch he's explosive, off it he's almost shy. But when it comes to his career, he's ruthless. The partnership with Prime, the new Nike boots – it's all carefully thought out. He knows his time on the pitch is limited, and he's making the most of it.

• Haaland's season tally: 27 Premier League goals so far – despite a couple of minor injury lay-offs.
• New boots: The Nike Phantom GX II Elite FG – for maximum power and precision.
• Limited-edition drink: Prime Hydration with the Haaland logo – including the "Steam-Time ThankYou" gimmick. A collector's item!

My tip for West Ham

Right, I'm going to stick my neck out: West Ham are a tough nut to crack, but if Haaland gets even 70 minutes on the pitch, he'll score at least one. That edge he's got now, after going a few games without a goal – he'll channel that into the first shot that comes his way. And then it'll be in the back of the net. So keep your eyes peeled, not just for the goals, but for the boots and maybe the odd drink bottle he might grab after the game. A player like Haaland lives and breathes football, pure and honest.