Sadio Mane self-isolating after positive Covid-19 test, Liverpool confirm

Liverpool have announced that forward Sadio Mane has tested positive for coronavirus, the Senegalese becoming the second player at the club to return a positive test.

Mane is self-isolating with what Liverpool described as “minor symptoms”.

A club statement read: “Sadio Mane has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently self-isolating according to the necessary guidelines.

“The forward, who started and scored in Monday’s 3-1 victory over Arsenal, has displayed minor symptoms of the virus but feels in good health overall.

“However, like with Thiago Alcantara, Liverpool Football Club are – and will continue to – follow all protocols relating to COVID-19 and Mane will self-isolate for the required period of time.”

Thiago returned a positive test on Tuesday, meaning the pair will miss Sunday’s trip to Aston Villa.

As such, Jurgen Klopp could shuffle his pack and Diogo Jota could make his first Premier League start.

The Portuguese featured in both ties against Arsenal this week, being named from the start in Thursday’s Carabao Cup match.

Meanwhile, Liverpool remain without Joel Matip but Joe Gomez will likely play alongside Virgil van Dijk in central defence.

Kostas Tsimikas is also a doubt after he recently picked up a thigh problem. In midfield, it is unclear whether captain Jordan Henderson will return.

Liverpool unsure on Henderson fitness

 

 

The England international has been recovering from a knee injury suffered against Chelsea last month.

Manager Klopp said in Friday’s pre-match press conference: “He will be part of parts of training today (Friday).

“He has absolutely no muscle issues, he’s not injured any more. Now we have to make sure he can make the next step. What that means for the weekend, I don’t know.

“I was in close contact with Gareth Southgate and it is clear that he will use the time with national team for getting match fit.”

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