Jurgen Klopp revealed Liverpool expected exactly the kind of attacking masterclass Sadio Mane produced in the 5-0 League Cup victory over Burton when they parted with £30 million to acquire his services.
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However, the German worldwide went down midway through the second half without any contact from an opposing player and was replaced by Kevin Stewart in the 71st minute as the Reds booked their place in the third round with a comfortable 5-0 win.
The Germany global started the match, but only last 71 minutes before he had to be substituted, after going over his ankle awkwardly while stretching to intercept the ball.
“He stretched by himself and he had an issue on this ankle so that’s why he’s most concerned at this moment”.
His absence was felt at Turf Moor, and the 24-year-old is poised to be pivotal again at White Hart Lane on Saturday.
“But it is not that serious”. It’s not that big [of a] pain any more, but it’s the ankle he had problems with at the end of last season, so he’s a little bit anxious, ‘ he added.
‘Hopefully it’s nothing too serious’.
There were no further goals until just after the hour mark when Burton’s Tom Naylor turned the ball into is own net.
But Watford lost 2-1 at home to third-tier Gillingham after extra time and West Bromwich Albion were beaten 4-3 on penalties by League One side Northampton Town following a 2-2 draw. “It wasn’t about the score”, he added.
Divock Origi also looked to have picked up a knock at the end of the game, but the manager has allayed fears of a second injury by confirming that it was just a bout of cramps.
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“We gave a few players match time because they had pre-season but not match time and they need time to play, gave some a few important minutes, so all good”. “Football could always be better but it was wonderful, nice goals and nothing to criticise”.
