Klopp - Sadio Mane could play in the midfield

Jurgen Klopp says Sadio Mane can as well play a deeper role

Sadio Mane has played most his game as left-wing forward since joining Liverpool from Southampton in 2016.

However, his boss Jurgen Klopp sees him as an utility player who has gone on to become a world class player since making the switch.

"Since he came in he helped the team so much, he improved so much. He is an outstanding offensive player," he said.

"If you ask me if he is a striker, yes, from time to time; is he a midfielder, yes, from time to time; he can probably play a slightly deeper position as well.

“We don’t have to play him there because we have other players there but he could play it as well.

"He is physically strong, technically strong, he is unbelievably quick, he is quick in mind as well, and he is a good shooter with both feet.

“That makes a good player and he is a fantastic person.

"He needed more confidence when he came in, the start was really good but I think he was a bit surprised by himself.

"Everything was good until the first time his shape dropped a little bit and then he struggled a bit with that, because he needed to get used to that he is a world-class player.

“Now, he knows that much better. That helps us. He is a really good player."

Saio Mane's form was rewarded with a nomination for the 2018 Ballon d’Or.

He is on the 30-man shortlist along with Reds team-mates Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Alisson.