Sadio Mane is expected to miss Senegal’s World Cup opener against the Netherlands on Monday.
The Bayern Munich star is suffering from a tendon injury in his leg sustained on November 7 but has been deemed fit to travel with his country to Qatar for the tournament.
While struggling to be fit to play, the 30-year-old appears to miss Monday’s clash against Louis van Gaal’s side, according to the Senegalese Football Federation via Sky Sports News.
It also means Mane is set to miss a reunion with Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk, with the two playing together at Liverpool for four and a half years.
Senegal will be hoping to enjoy a strong tournament as they continue their African Cup of Nations success in February.
If they are to do so, the former Liverpool star will no doubt be a key part of their plans.
Mane’s injury situation could also be of interest to Gareth Southgate and England.
With Senegal in Group A and the Three Lions in Group B, the two teams will meet in the Round of 16 if one wins its group and the other finishes second.
Mane enjoys a good relationship with England fans after his successful spell at Anfield and there is no doubt that fans would rather avoid facing the striker if given the chance.
Listen to the full Senegal v Netherlands commentary LIVE on talkSPORT 2, kick off at 4pm.
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