It was long overdue. Sadio Mane scored his first Premier League goal since October 17 during a 7-0 victory at Selhurst Park.
Make that seven goals in seven appearances against the Eagles for Liverpool’s Senegalese sensation.
Mane now has six goals in all competitions in 2020/21, with this strike his first in the top-flight since the 2-2 draw with Everton just under two months ago.
The 28-year-old’s season has been a stop-start one due to fitness setbacks, regular rotation and a possible dip in confidence.
His performance against Palace provides hope that he can kick on, and go on a run. Mane is one of the most devastating forwards in world football. The prospect of him rediscovering his goalscoring touch is a scary proposition for the rest of the league.
What was really encouraging from Mane was his all-round display.
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In the 56 minutes he was on the pitch, he had three shots – two of which were on target – and created one chance for his team, which set up Takumi Minamino for his first Premier League goal.
His attacking play was irresistible. He was always making himself an option to Jordan Henderson, who looked to set Mane loose with a number of lofted passes over the Palace back-line.
Mane’s goal itself, showed great alertness and predatory-like instincts in the box that had been missing in recent weeks.
It was an instant injection of confidence and it showed in Mane’s disappointment in being substituted just before the hour mark – he certainly felt he had more to give.
Reaction
Here is a look at how the fans reacted to Mane’s performance.
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