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Liverpool 'lucky' to have 'great player' Thiago Alcantara, says Sadio Mane

POOL/AFP via Getty Images
POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Liverpool striker Sadio Mane says the club are lucky to have Thiago Alcantara after the Spaniard made his debut in Sunday’s victory over Chelsea.

Thiago, who arrived in a £25million move from Bayern Munich this week, came on as a half-time substitute in place of the injured Jordan Henderson in the 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge.

Despite playing only 45 minutes, the midfielder completed more passes than any Chelsea player and put in an impressive display, though he did clumsily concede a penalty, which Alisson saved.

“Not only me, all the world know what Thiago is capable of,” Mane told Sky Sports. “So we are lucky to have him in our team. He is a great player."

(Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Mane scored both goals in Sunday’s win and was also involved in Andreas Christensen’s first-half sending off, the Chelsea defender hauling him down when through on goal.

"It was a tough game especially in the first half,” Mane added. “When they got the red card it made it easier and in the second half we made many chances, scored two goals and deserved to win.

"It was a great ball from Jordan [for the red card]. I am used to them because he is a great player. I tried to make the runs and when he [Andreas Christensen] made the foul I knew it was a red card."