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Mauricio Pochettino has shared some tips he believes can help defenders stop Erling Haaland from scoring.

Haaland is arguably the most menacing striker in world football today, having been in great form since he arrived England.

The Norwegian was the top striker in the Premier League last season after banging in more than 30 goals for reigning champions, Manchester City.

It’s always a very difficult task for defenders when they come up against a fast and clinical forward like Haaland, but Pochettino believes that focus and early anticipation are key.

The Chelsea gaffer made this known while speaking ahead of his side’s league meeting with City, while also admitting to using the dark arts during his playing days.

In the interview, Poch recalled a game between Barcelona and Espanyol from 26 years ago, where his side ended up beating Pep’s Barcelona 2-0. The game was a keenly contested one that saw cards flying in different directions.

“I remember that game — you can find some clips on YouTube,” Pochettino said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.

“I was doing some bad things and today I would be off after a few minutes!

“It was a special night. To get the victory felt really good.

“Today, with VAR, it would have been impossible to stop Ronaldo. Back then, we were ‘naughty’, there were no cameras and you could use different strategies. I wouldn’t say it was easy, but to be a defender now is really difficult.

“It’s easier now for offensive players like Haaland. They have the advantage of VAR, so defenders are cautious not to foul or pull shirts. Before it was like a war in every single action.”

“You need to run faster, focus and try to anticipate him,” Poch replied to a question on how to stop Haaland now.

“You have to be clear how you are going to defend in the box because he is tall. You need to jump before him. You need to teach people things but you also need them to feel it. You have to give them good tools.”