Liverpool could well have been dealt an early blow in their title chances this season after discovering that star man Sadio Mane will be out of action for around 6 weeks with a hamstring injury.

The forward has been outstanding since joining the Reds from Southampton, and the news will come as a bitter pill to swallow for Jurgen Klopp, whose side prepare to face arch rivals Manchester United this weekend.

Klopp’s other injury woes include long term absentee Adam Lallana – who is out with a thigh strain, Nathaniel Clyne – out with a back injury and defender Dejan Lovren, who is a slight doubt with a back injury but will likely miss the game against United.

The absence of Adam Lallana against United is one that fans were well aware of, but there was a slight bit of hope that Lovren could return to action despite revealing he has chronic pain during and after playing. The news about Mane however is a huge blow, the Senegalese forward has been one of the stars of the Premier League since joining Liverpool – and the Red’s themselves are a much better side with him in their side.

The eagerly awaited match-up against United might well have a few down points leading up to the game for Klopp, but it has to be noted that Mourinho’s side are struggling with injuries themselves and will be without several key players.