Liverpool wanted Mo Salah masterclass but Sadio Mane emerged as hero in new position

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After a recent mini slump, it was imperative that Liverpool got back to winning ways against Watford on Wednesday night.

Three draws in four Premier League matches handed Manchester City the chance to catch up in the title race and Liverpool only led by one point going into the midweek games.

After the 0-0 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford, many Liverpool fans called for Mo Salah to turn things around.

The usually-reliable Egyptian has seen his form slump in recent weeks and the Reds wanted him to inspire them to victory over Watford.

But it was Sadio Mane who was the hero instead; shining in a newfound centre-forward role.

Salah has played there this season but was ineffective against Man United, while Divock Origi’s natural position is through the middle.

Nevertheless, Jurgen Klopp decided Mane was the player to lead the line and he rewarded his manager’s faith with two goals.

The 26-year-old scored Liverpool’s first two goals on their way to a comfortable 5-0 win over the Hornets to keep their place at the top of the league.

Like a typical striker, Mane found himself in promising positions, opening the scoring with a header then netting a cheeky back-heel over Ben Foster.

And with Roberto Firmino still out injured, Mane has given Klopp a new option up front.

The Senegal international usually plays on the wing but looks reborn in the striker role, even outshining Salah last night.