Liverpool forward Sadio Mane has revealed he models his game on Barcelona legend Ronaldinho; hinting that he always tries to follow his example of smiling while playing the game.
Ronaldinho is one of the most loved players of all time, not just for his skills and exploits on the pitch, but for his attitude towards football too. And Mane hastold Liverpool's official websitethat the player'sattitude has had a direct effect on his game too.
The international break is going well for Liverpool's on-duty stars. https://t.co/biDLiNwEdQ
He said:"Some people say I don't smile enough.
"I think that's wrong. I'm usually smiling and having a laugh in training because I enjoy football.Ronaldinho always did that and I've always tried to copy him. I think footballers have plenty of reasons to smile. We have a great job that everybody would like to have."
Mane has been a revelation since his big-money move from Southampton in the summer -becoming the most expensive African player in history in the process - and has already chipped in with three goals in his first six Premier League games. He believes however that a big reason for his and the team's early success is their understanding on the pitch.
He added:"It's a system where everybody knows their job. (Roberto)Firmino, (Philippe)Coutinho, (Daniel) Sturridge, Adam Lallana - we know each other's game.
"It's become easier for us thanks to working on it and we are enjoying playing this way. Whether I'm starting up front or out wide isn't really the most important thing.The manager says be free and then get into dangerous areas where you can hurt the opposition."
Mane will be hoping for his team to maintain their form and keep the pace with league leaders Manchester City after the international break, as Jose Mourinho's Manchester United next visit Anfield.
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