HE MAY BE at the centre of transfer speculation linking him with a move to Old Trafford but Sadio Mané played for Southampton this evening.
But it proved a difficult experience for him and his current employers.
The Saints faced Danish champions Midtjylland in the first-leg of their Europa League qualifier and went behind just before the half-time interval when Tim Sparv, a graduate from Southampton’s academy, fired home from 20 yards.
The hosts were better after the break though and after James Ward-Prowse was taken down in the penalty area, Jay Rodriguez, who missed all of last season due to a cruciate ligament injury, stepped up to convert from the spot – his first goal since March 2014.
The game ended 1-1 and the concession of the away goal will concern Ronald Koeman.
The Republic of Ireland’s Shane Long started from the bench though he did replace Rodriguez for the last fifteen minutes.
Unsurprisingly, all the attention was focused on Mané before the game owing to the recent stories of Manchester United lodging an official bid for him.
As the 23-year-old made his way to the St. Mary’s dressing rooms, a young fan begged him to stay with the player agreeing to the demand, albeit with a smile.
http://vine.co/v/eDOai95gzhi
