Liverpool forward Sadio Mane has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after manager Jurgen Klopp revealed the Senegal international is set to have surgery on a knee injury.

The 24-year-old former Saints star, who sustained meniscus damage in a challenge with Leighton Baines in last weekend's Merseyside derby, has had his knee in a brace all week and been walking on crutches.

Liverpool's medical staff were hoping they could avoid an operation but the decision has been taken to write off the forward's campaign and get him fit again for pre-season.

"I am pretty sure Sadio will need surgery but I am not 100 per cent sure when it will happen, but then it is clear 'season over'," said Klopp.

"That is what I half-expected when I saw him after the game. I felt he was lucky that not more happened but we are close enough to the end of the season that it will be pretty much impossible to play again this season.

"He will get a longer break and will be ready for next season. That is the only good news."

Mane joined Liverpool from Saints for a huge £34m last season, and has been a huge hit at Anfield. He is currently the Reds' top league scorer with 13 goals in 27 matches - a good record considering he missed most of January on Africa Cup of Nations duty with Senegal.

Saints are due to travel to Anfield in the Premier League on May 6.