Reds’ Mane keen to strike fear in defences

Sadio Mane has enjoyed a sterling spell since joining Liverpool and believes he’s at his happiest when defenders are scared of him.

The forward has already scored twice in his four Reds appearances to date, the second of which came in a commanding 4-1 win over champions Leicester on Saturday evening.

It was the perfect introduction for the newly-revamped Anfield, with the extra 8,500 fans affording Mane a standing ovation after also assisting Roberto Firmino’s second.

His Liverpool displays have already led to comparisons with Anfield legend John Barnes, with the Senegal international, who signed from Southampton for £34million over the summer, desperate to keep Premier League back-lines on their toes for a while yet.

(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

“It is a great compliment to be compared to the legendary players but I am still young and learning,” he said.

“I need to give my best for the team and the most important thing is trying to keep going.

“I will be happy if defenders are afraid of me because it will make it easier for me.

“When you are new it can sometimes be difficult to adapt into the team. But here it has been easy with great players like Daniel [Sturridge], Philippe [Coutinho] and Roberto [Firmino]. Now I’m in Liverpool I hope I can score more.

“Yes, I am in a good way, but I have to work. That work started on the day I signed and now I have to keep going in training and show it every game.

“As a team we just need to take things game by game and give our best in every game.”