Liverpool star Sadio Mane tests positive for Covid-19 and goes into self-isolation

Anfield forward will miss the weekend action but hopes to be back for Mersey derby

Liverpool's Sadio Mane after being fouled by Andreas Christensen of Chelsea. Mane had a fine game, scoring both goals in the 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge in September. EPA

Chelsea's Timo Werner in action with Liverpool's Andrew Robertson. Reuters

Liverpool's new signing Thiago Alcantara was introduced as a half-time replacement for Jordan Henderson. AFP

Andreas Christensen of Chelsea is shown a red card by referee Paul Tierney. EPA

Kepa Arrizabalaga of Chelsea. EPA

Sadio Mane of Liverpool scores his team's opening goal. EPA

Sadio Mane of Liverpool celebrates. EPA

Sadio Mane scores Liverpool's second. EPA

Liverpool's Thiago in action with Chelsea's Mason Mount. Reuters

Chelsea's Timo Werner looks dejected. Reuters

Liverpool's star forward Sadio Mane has tested positive for Covid-19 and is self-isolating, the club announced.

"Sadio Mane has tested positive for Covid-19 and is currently self-isolating according to the necessary guidelines," Liverpool said in a statement.

"The forward, who started and scored in Monday's 3-1 victory over Arsenal, has displayed minor symptoms of the virus but feels in good health overall.

"However, like with Thiago Alcantara, Liverpool Football Club are - and will continue to - follow all protocols relating to Covid-19 and Mane will self-isolate for the required period of time."

Thiago missed the Arsenal game after his own positive test and he and Mane will both be absent for Sunday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa.

Manager Jurgen Klopp will hope to have both players available when the Reds return to action after the international break on October 17 for the Merseyside derby at Everton.

Senegal's player of the year

Mane, 28, has been in fine form this season, scoring both goals in Liverpool's win over Chelsea before also netting against the Gunners.

His enforced isolation will also affect his international commitments after Mane was named in Senegal's squad for their upcoming friendlies against Morocco and Mauritania.