Latest Liverpool news: Mane could face Norwich in Premier League opener

Sky Sports believes Sadio Mane could be in contention to face Norwich in Liverpool’s Premier League opener.

The Senegal international was handed an extended break after his efforts in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Mane could not lead the side to the title and will return to Liverpool on Monday.

The 27-year-old is the only player not at Liverpool as the other international players have all returned.

Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Alisson were the latest to join pre-season training and played against Lyon recently.

Jurgen Klopp was asked about the Senegal star’s fitness ahead of the season, and the manager claimed that Mane had his own training plan even during the holidays (h/t Sky Sports):

“Sadio had 16 days off, he will be in a good shape. He doesn’t drink, he doesn’t eat too much, he had a training programme.
“Maybe after 10 days probably he started with a little bit of running, so I think he will be fine. But we have to see.”

Liverpool shouldn’t risk Mane for Norwich

Mane was one of the best players in the Premier League last season and should only be played if he is 100% fit.

Rushing him back to the first-team would be a mistake from the Reds, and we should have enough firepower to see off the newly-promoted side on Friday.