Sadio Mane's response to the suggestion that Liverpool can embark on another long run in the Champions League is as emphatic as it is simple: "Why not?"

Three months after falling at the ultimate hurdle in last season’s competition, the Reds will discover their group-stage opponents for the 2018-19 edition when the draw is made in Monaco on Thursday afternoon.

Mane, who scored nine goals to help Jürgen Klopp’s side reach the showpiece against Real Madrid in Kiev and then one in the final itself, believes the squad can build on the benefits of that journey as they attempt to repeat it.

“It was a very big sign for us. It was a bonus for us to learn and get those kinds of experiences,” the No.10 told Liverpoolfc.com at Melwood.

“We have played [big games] already and we know how. Now we have to do the same work on the pitch and the experience we had in the past will help.

“It’s very early to speak about it but it’s why we’re always here working: to do anything possible. We have the quality and everything to go throughout [the tournament], so why not? Why not?”

Watch: Mane on CL draw and ambitions

Liverpool topped their group last season by collecting 12 points from their encounters with Sevilla, NK Maribor and Spartak Moscow.

Knockout victories over FC Porto – featuring a Mane hat-trick in the away leg – Manchester City and AS Roma followed as the Reds made an unforgettable return to the elite competition.

And the Senegal international has no preference on potential opponents this term.

“Honestly, I don’t mind. We are a good team. It will not be easy for any team but, like we always did, we’ll fight and fight and fight again,” he added.