Liverpool's Sadio Mane has revealed that opted to remain with Southampton when Manchester United came calling in the summer of 2015.

The Senegal international had completed a successful debut Premier League season when it became apparent that the Red Devils were showing interest.

Mane scored 10 goals and provided four assists in 30 league outings for the Saints after arriving from Red Bull Salzburg, but felt a move away from St Mary and Ronald Koeman's tutelage was perhaps a bit premature.

In an interview with The Telegraph, Mane said of United's interest: “Ronald Koeman was not happy with all the rumours because he wanted me to stay, but it was not too complicated because for me, also, it was not time to go.

“When I spoke to him I told him, 'No problem, I will stay'. It was my decision. I wanted to stay at Southampton.

“I was patient because I remember after the first year [in England] I knew it was better to focus on Southampton. In my head I thought I would be there a couple more years and prove something.

“I was convinced I still had to prove something, improve more and learn more before I moved to a bigger club."

Mane, 24, eventually left the south coast for Liverpool in a £34million deal this past summer and feels he has made the perfect choice as he gets ready to clash with the Red Devils in the north-west derby at Anfield on Monday night.

He added: “But then I knew when the right time was for me. The extra year helped me get better, and it is important for every player to go step by step.

“It was only when Liverpool came in [last summer] that I never had a second thought and knew I wanted to join. It was different because then was the right moment for me.

“I finally came to Liverpool and I was happy with that, and now I'm happy I am playing against Manchester United."