Sakho hasn't made a single appearance for Liverpool this season following a falling out with Jurgen Klopp during pre-season. The defender was sent home early from the Reds’ USA tour for being “disrespectful” after he missed a flight, training session and team dinner. The 26-year-old has struggled to find his way back after he was banned for testing positive for a fat burner in the summer - a charge UEFA have since dismissed.

GETTY Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho is upbeat despite his exile in the Under-23s

GETTY Mamadou Sakho has been in training with the Liverpool Under-23s

However, despite his exile from the Reds' first team, the centre-back has revealed he still goes to training with the Under-23s with a smile on his face. “I am very, very well," Sakho told French broadcaster Telefoot. "I have re-found my form. I still have my smile.”

Mamadou Sakho appears for Liverpool U23s against FC Porto Thu, November 3, 2016 Express Sport brings you the best pictures from Liverpool U23s' 1-1 draw with FC Porto at Prenton Park Play slideshow Getty Images 1 of 6 Liverpool outcast Mamadou Sakho featured for the Reds U23s as they drew 1-1 with FC Porto in their Premier League International Cup clash at Prenton Park last night

Sakho has been urged to leave Anfield last week by former team-mate Mario Balotelli and France coach Didier Deschamps. “I speak with him from time to time - I told him what a shame that a player like you is not playing," Balotelli said. "He deserves to be playing every match, for the national team too. That is what is most important, he should leave.

GETTY Mamadou Sakho has not featured for Liverpool at all this season