Mark Lawrenson says Liverpool need Sadio Mane fit to beat Manchester City

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Mark Lawrenson has suggested to BBC Sport that Liverpool won’t beat Manchester City this weekend unless Sadio Mane is fit.

The Senegalese performer has missed the last two matches through injury but could be back available for Sunday’s clash.

Mane is clearly an important member of Jurgen Klopp’s team and his inclusion would help Liverpool considerably.

The reigning champions desperately need a win against the Citizens, with their grip on the title loosening by the week.

Lawrenson has suggested that their aspirations of beating Pep Guardiola’s team will be dependent on Mane’s fitness.

He told BBC Sport: “Jurgen Klopp’s side badly need a win to narrow the gap at the top but a lot will depend on whether Sadio Mane is fit to lead their attack.

“The Reds need Mane at the moment more than anyone, because on his day he is just unplayable.

“Liverpool don’t press the same without him, and their attack is more pedestrian too. Xherdan Shaqiri or Divock Origi won’t cause City anything like the same sort of problems.”

TBR View: Liverpool desperate for Mane return but other problems need sorting

It’s fair to say that Mane is needed back by Liverpool as quickly as possible but other issues have emerged this season.

Klopp added two new central defenders on deadline day and if playing those means Jordan Henderson can return to midfield, it’s something he must look at.

Liverpool haven’t been anywhere near as good this season as they were last.

Although the £100,000-a-week Mane is clearly integral, Klopp has other issues to solve which are arguably just as important.

The City game looks massive for the champions and a defeat would almost certainly end their title defence.