Mane has slotted seamlessly into Jürgen Klopp’s team since his summer move from Southampton, with his brilliant solo goal proving decisive in their thrilling 4-3 win at Arsenal on the opening day of the season.
The Senegalese was again outstanding in the Reds’ 1-1 draw at Tottenham Hotspur before the international break, and Aldridge believes he has already established himself as a ‘key player’ for the club - just as a certain John Barnes did immediately after his arrival in 1987.
“He’s only played three matches, but the sense of excitement building around Sadio Mane is considerable - and it's understandable,” the former No.