Liverpool star Sadio Mane has said his Champions League hat-trick against Porto last month has given him a huge confidence boost after a recent difficult run of form.

The Senegal international starred as the Reds ran riot against the Portuguese side last month, netting a sensational hat-trick to take his tally in the competition to six.

The former Southampton star had found the net only twice in  the previous 12 games across all competitions for Jurgen Klopp’s men, and says getting back amongst the goals was a huge relief.

“I think so! It’s always important – especially for a striker – to score.” Mane responded when asked if he felt as if he was back to his best.

“It gives you confidence and I am feeling confident. Now I am looking forward to continuing to give my best, as I have done all of the time even when I have not been at my best.”

Mane’s hat-tricked saw him scoop the Champions League Player of the Week award, receiving 57% of the votes for the coveted prize.

But while he was flattered, Mane insists his focus remains on the team.

“I’m very happy to win the award, but the most important thing was getting the three points.” he continued.

“I’m happy to have scored the three goals, but I want to score many more and progress to the next round.

“It was a big honour for me to score the hat-trick, but without my teammates I am nothing. The whole performance of the team was great on the night. We started the game well and did so right until the end, creating many chances and scoring five goals.”