Liverpool forward Sadio Mane has tested positive for COVID-19, the club confirmed on Friday evening – just days after team-mate Thiago Alcantara tested positive for the coronavirus.
Thiago missed Thursday night’s Carabao Cup penalty shoot-out defeat to Arsenal as he continues to be isolated, and Mane will miss Sunday evening’s trip to Aston Villa – although the upcoming international break will keep him out. Will give a little time to recover without missing a game for his club.
Sadio Mane has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently self-isolating as per the necessary guidelines.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 2, 2020
A club statement read: “Sadio Mane has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently self-isolating in accordance with the necessary guidelines. The forward, who scored in Monday’s 3-1 win against Arsenal Started and scored in the victory, I have had mild symptoms of the virus, but overall feel in good health.
“However, like Thiago Alcantara, Liverpool Football Club has – and will continue to – follow all protocols related to COVID-19 and Mane will self-isolate for the required period.”
The Merseyside derby could be Mane’s first game back after a period of self-isolation if he recovers in good time, with rivals Everton looking more tested than they have been in several seasons. That being the case, Mane – who has had a good start to the season, scoring three times in three games – could play a key role in this match.
New signing Diego Jota is likely to make his first Premier League start in Mane’s absence.
⚡️ Sadio ⚡️
After an impressive start to the season, Sadio has been named September’s @premierleague Player of the Month?
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 2, 2020
The occurrence of two positive tests in such a short space of time may cause some concern at Melwood, where much has been done to minimize any possibility of an outbreak within the squad and staff.
The release of COVID-19 testing results on Monday showed the highest number of cases in one round (10) since the season resumed, as the number across the country peaked for the second time.
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