Mane: We must accept result

Liverpool must not dwell on the disappointment of drawing with Sunderland if they are to bounce back in their upcoming games, Sadio Mane has said.

The Reds took the lead through a Daniel Sturridge goal in the 20th minute only for Jermain Defoe to equalise from the penalty spot just five minutes later.

Having retaken the lead courtesy of Mane's close range strike, the Reds looked to be on course for another victory before Defoe converted his second penalty of the day in the 84th minute after Mane had handled in the box.

The draw came less than 48 hours after the defeat of Manchester City at Anfield and Mane admits the draw was not the result they had been expecting.

"It was really difficult [to take] because it's not what we expected," he told Liverpoolfc.com.

"We were winning and I think we played well and created a lot of chances but we had to score. We didn't score and it was a little bit of a problem.

"We have to accept it and prepare for the next games.

"It's not easy to play [twice] in 48 hours but that's what we have to accept because we're professional and it's our job.

"We have to accept it and just do our best for the team to win games."

Mane will join up with the Senegal national team later this week ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations but he is confident his team-mates can pick up a lot of points in his absence.

"We are in good position but now what's more important is the direction. Everybody knows that and will be ready for the next games," he added.

"It won't be easy for me to leave because I would like to help them but I think they will understand.

"We have done good work and we have a strong team so it will be no problem, they will do it."