Liverpool News: Sadio Mane being away was reason why Reds didn’t win league – Gerrard

SADIO MANE being at the African Cup of Nations was the reason why Liverpool did not mount a serious title challenge last season, according to Steven Gerrard.

Sadio Mane sets up Senegal teammate with perfect backheel

Mane joined Liverpool from Southampton for £30million in the summer of 2016, and hit the ground running at Anfield. 

The Senegal international led the Reds to second in the table, six points behind eventual champions Chelsea on New Year’s Day. 

However, the forward was unavailable for the majority of January as he was at the African Cup of Nations, which saw Liverpool’s form plummet in the league. 

Gerrard says he was sorely missed at as he is a has the ability to be a matchwinner for Jurgen Klopp’s side.

Steven GerrardBT SPORT

Liverpool News: Sadio Mane being away cost the Reds the title last season, says Steven Gerrard

Sadio Mane is becoming a fan favourite here, he scores all kinds of different goals

Steven Gerrard on Liverpool star Sadio Mane

“He’s a special player,” Gerrard said on BT Sport of Mane. 

“I think his goal return is fantastic. He got 15 goals in 32 appearances (last season). 

“He’s becoming a fan favourite here, he scores all kinds of different goals. 

"Lots of pace and he’s a threat all over the pitch. 

Steven Gerrard Steve McManamanBT SPORT

Liverpool News: Sadio Mane is a "special player" and a "fan favourite" at Anfield, says Gerrard

“He breaks the line with his runs, he’s very direct and when he gets in he’s got pure quality. 

“He is electric, Liverpool missed him badly last January. 

“I think Liverpool were really close to the top of the league, he had to go to the Africa Cup of Nations and I don’t think they won all the way through January so he was sorely missed.”

Liverpool's next league game is against Arsenal this Sunday (4pm).

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