The former star of the Austrian side was sensational for his side in Tuesday's triumph.

Liverpool talisman Sadio Mane has issued an apology to Red Bull Salzburg after helping the Reds to ease past his former club. The 27-year-old striker who ranks among the finest talents produced by the Austrian outfit delivered an assist for his side's opener in Tuesday's 2-0 win.

All plans of Salzburg staging one of the European competition's shocks were squashed as Mane combined with another product of the club, Naby Keita, to grab the lead for Liverpool, 12 minutes after half-time. A minute later, Mohamed Salah scored the second to seal the night's win.

The outcome ensured a safe passage for Jurgen Klopp's men into the knockout stage with Napoli also qualifying as the second-best team in Group E while relegating Salzburg to the Europa League. Speaking at the end of the fixture, Mane said: 'I think it was a really really tough game today,' he told BT Sport.

'For sure we expected that and we were better into the second half. We create many chances and we scored. Naby scored a wonderful goal.

'I'm happy for him against his old club so that's it. I think we deserved to win tonight and we are happy.

'It's always nice to come back here because it's where it all started for me.

'And I'm really grateful for this club and the fans and as well the people here. Sorry guys, but this is football and we have to do it.'