Are you surprised how quickly things have happened for you?

　Yes I am, actually. I've always known that I could score goals but I had to get the chance to prove it at this level.

What's it like playing with Eric? Was he a hero of yours?

　It's incredible, you can't describe it... Well, maybe I could try if you had a spare few days! I used to watch him play while I was still in Norway. It's a dream to play in the English Premier League.

You started the season as an unknown and at the moment you are first-choice striker. Are you getting big-headed?

　No, Andy is still the first-choice striker, when he is 100% fit. He has been very unlucky with injury this season.

From a technical point of view, what's your best ever goal?

　For Norway against Azerbaijan, when Jim Ryan was watching the game. I scored an incredible goal and maybe that's part of the reason I was chosen to come here.

Did you think Jim Ryan was there to watch you?

　I didn't even know, but that's good because then maybe you try too hard to make an impression.

Why do you think Norway is producing so many good players?

We are stubborn people and want to achieve something. We come from a small country and want to get out and explore the world.

You are massively popular in Norway, with a story about you every day in the national papers. Have you noticed the change when you come to visit?

　Yes, I have noticed a slight difference. Everybody recognizes me when I go to my home town.I guess I do get special treatment to a certain extent. I would rather play for Manchester United without anybody knowing who I am, but I know that it doesn't work that way. It's more difficult to be anonymous when you're a striker and scoring goals.

What's the funniest thing that's ever happened to you on a football pitch?

　I went to take a penalty kick once and I slipped when I shouldn't (laughs at himself.) The ball just rolled very slowly into the hands of the keeper. That was a bit embarrassing. I do actually like to take penalties, but we already have Eric.

Which defenders have marked you most tightly?

Gunnar Halle, the Norwegian who plays for Leeds, and also Ugo Ehiogu at Aston Villa. They are two of the best players I have played against so far; they're both strong and quick. I do like to play against players with a good reputation, like the Juventus players, because that makes me feel that I have nothing to lose. I like the big games.

Who do you room with on away games, and what, if any, are his bad habits?

　Ronny Johnsen. His bad habits are not that bad, but he does spend a lot of time in the bathroom.

What does he do in there?

　His hair maybe (laughs)? I wouldn't like to speculate!

How has your girlfriend coped with the move to England? Is she enjoying it?

　It is a very big change for her, but now she is studying photography over here.

Which parts of Manchester do you like the best?

　I've only been out once to a bar in Manchester, with Eric, Peter Schmeichel and Ronny. I don't really like going to bars and clubs. I do like Altrincham were I live now; we go for meals around there.

How do you feel about the press calling you Babyface?

　It annoys me a little, but not enough to get upset over. I know I look young but I don't look 12 years old. I've never been asked for identification in pubs yet... but then I am 23.

What five things would you take with you to a desert island?

First of a11 my girlfriend - though she isn't a thing ! Choosing the rest would be hard, because there would be no electricity to take my TV, video, stereo system and video games.

What's your favourite television programme?

　Seinfeld, a comedy programme on Sky Magazine staff Manchester.

Finally, will you demonstrate a basic wrestling throw on our photographer?

　I'll have a go but he's larger than me. l | haven't wrestled since I was 10. I can | remember some throws. Most of the time I was the one being thrown.