Former England striker Peter Crouch delivered a typically witty response after Erling Haaland paid tribute to him with the famous “robot” celebration during Manchester City’s 3–1 victory over Bournemouth on Sunday.
Haaland struck twice as City returned to winning ways at the Etihad, and after netting his first of the afternoon, the Norwegian forward delighted fans by breaking into Crouch’s trademark move — the robotic dance that became one of football’s most recognisable celebrations during the mid-2000s.
Crouch, quick to spot the homage, responded on social media with a touch of humour, posting: “I walked so they could run,” alongside two robot emojis.
The 44-year-old’s reply sparked laughter among fans, many of whom fondly remembered his iconic dance from his time at Liverpool and for the England national team.
Haaland himself joined in on the fun, writing on Instagram: “Guess I couldn’t hide it any longer…” — confirming that the celebration had been a deliberate nod to Crouch’s legacy.
The original “robot” first appeared in 2006 when Crouch performed it after scoring for England against Jamaica ahead of that summer’s World Cup.
It quickly became a cultural phenomenon, earning the striker as much fame for his sense of humour as for his aerial prowess.
Former England striker Peter Crouch delivered a typically witty response after Erling Haaland paid tribute to him with the famous “robot” celebration during Manchester City’s 3–1 victory over Bournemouth on Sunday
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Crouch retired in 2019 after an 18-year career in which he made 468 Premier League appearances for clubs including Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Southampton, Portsmouth, and Stoke City.
Across those years, he scored 106 Premier League goals and provided 62 assists, cementing his reputation as one of the division’s most distinctive and beloved figures.
Haaland’s double against Bournemouth helped City secure a much-needed victory following a frustrating defeat on the road the previous week.
Peter Crouch often performed the robot during his playing days
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The Norwegian forward, who continues to set records with his prolific scoring rate, reflected modestly on the performance after full-time.
“It is an important win,” he said. “It is good to bounce back after losing a bad away game.
“I tried to contribute for the team by doing my job. It is good to win, and now we have two more important games to come, so we have to keep focusing.”
Haaland added that he remains focused on helping the team however he can.
“I didn’t score in our last game and I always try to help the team to win,” he said.
“That’s my goal — whether that’s by scoring or winning duels, it doesn’t matter. I want to help the team become better, that is my job.”
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Erling Haaland bagged a brace as Manchester City beat Bournemouth | PA
City’s third goal came from 19-year-old Nico O’Reilly, who capped off an impressive display to seal the result. Bournemouth’s Tyler Adams had earlier levelled for the visitors, but Pep
Guardiola’s side responded with authority to maintain pressure at the top of the Premier League table.
City are next in action against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Wednesday night (8pm).
As for Bournemouth, the Cherries will be hoping to secure a return to winning ways when they face Aston Villa on Sunday (2pm).
