Sadio Mane speaks for the first time since being ruled out of the World Cup as he reveals surgery on his leg injury 'went well with the Senegal star backing his nation to 'fight as one man' without him in Qatar.
Sadio Mane has spoken out for the first time since it was confirmed that he would be missing the World Cup due to injury. Mane has been ruled out of the tournament after being unable to recover from injury in time - in a cruel blow to Senegal. 
He suffered a knee injury in Bayern Munich's 6-1 win over Werder Bremen earlier this month. Mane left Qatar after being officially excluded from the World Cup due to injury.
Mane wrote through his account on the “Instagram” website: “Good evening everyone, many of you sent me messages of support after my injury. Thank God I had successful surgery in the middle of the week, and I want to thank you all.”
He added, "This Monday, my country will compete in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. I am confident that the Lions will present the strongest possible performance and will deal with all matches as a real final."
He continued, "I am convinced that all Senegalese will be in front of the small screen to support and encourage our national team, and I am like all the Teranga Lions fans."
Sadio Mane said: "I am convinced that my teammates will fight as one man as they always do, in order to honor our national team, long live Senegal".
The Netherlands and Senegal will clash on Monday at Al-Thumama Stadium, as part of the first round of the group stage.