Sadio Mane has thanked supporters who sent him well wishes following the news of his injury ruling him out of the World Cup.
The ex- Liverpool star sustained a leg injury during Bayern Munich's penultimate Bundesliga fixture prior to the mid-season break but was named in Senegal's 26-man squad in the hope of featuring at some stage of the tournament.
Bayern confirmed last Thursday that Mane had successfully undergone surgery in response to his injury setback but would not recover in time to feature in Qatar. This news left Virgil van Dijk saddened, along with a large number of football fans, particularly given the role played by the 30-year-old in his home nation securing qualification for the World Cup.
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Mane is now set for an extended spell on the sidelines, which reports have suggested could last as long as four months, but is remaining upbeat despite this unfortunate blow. Taking to social media to reach out to his admirers, the prolific forward backed his international team-mates to deliver as he watches on from afar.
"Many of you sent me messages of support following my injury. Thank goodness the midweek operation went well. I want to take this opportunity to thank you all and to express my gratitude to you," he said.
"This Monday, our dear country will compete in the World Cup. I am sure that the Lions will transcend themselves and will approach all matches as a real final. I am also convinced that all Senegalese will be in front of the small screen to support and encourage our valiant national team. Like all fans of the Lions, I am convinced that the teammates will fight as one man and as they usually do in order to honour our dear Senegal. Long live Senegal."
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