Mane unperturbed over Ederson incident

Liverpool star Sadio Mane is not going to let his collision with Ederson in last weekend’s Premier League defeat to Manchester City change his style of play despite leaving the Brazilian with several facial wounds.

The incident occurred when Mane chased a ball behind the City defence in the 37th minute and raised his foot in an attempt to nudge it past Ederson, but the goalkeeper got there first to head clear.

Mane’s studs impacted on the side of the 24-year-old’s face, drawing blood and forcing him to receive lengthy medical treatment before eventually leaving the pitch on a stretcher.

Referee Jon Moss produced a straight red card resulting in a three-match ban, for which the FA rejected Liverpool’s subsequent appeal, though Mane did express regret over the incident.

“I was going for the ball,” he said. “I didn’t have intention to hurt him because I am not that kind of player, so I wish him a quick recovery.

“I was focusing more on the goalkeeper than the card after the collision so when I saw the red card I was surprised because I was expecting maybe a yellow card. I will accept it and try to forget.

“I think the next time I will get the ball before him, I will do my best. My intention was not to hurt the goalkeeper.

“It was bad and I wish him the recovery to come back healthy. I am happy for him that he could play again for City at Feyenoord on Wednesday and help his team.”

Due to his suspension Mane will not feature again in the Premier League for Liverpool their trip to Newcastle United on October 1, but the forward believes Philippe Coutinho’s return to action, following a back injury and speculation around his future, will be a big help.