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Liverpool's Joe Allen fighting for starting spot in Europa League final

Joe Allen in action for Liverpool at Southampton
Image: Joe Allen says there is an 'added incentive' to impress for Liverpool, with the Europa League final coming up

Joe Allen is aiming to secure a first-team spot at Liverpool ahead of the Europa League final against Sevilla on Wednesday, May 18.

Allen has impressed when called upon by Jurgen Klopp, but has struggled to become a mainstay in the first team - starting only five of the last 11 games.

"With the final looming, we want to use every opportunity we get out there on the pitch to build momentum ahead of that game against Sevilla," he said.

"To be honest, any time you step out for this team, you are playing to prove you should be involved in the next game, whatever that game is.

"Of course, there is an added incentive in some ways when there's a final coming up.

Liverpool's Welsh midfielder Joe Allen
Image: Allen and his Liverpool team-mates play host to Chelsea in the Premier League on Wednesday night, live on Sky Sports

"My personal mindset is that when I cross that white line, my focus is always on performing and helping the team to get the result, regardless of who we're playing.

"Personally, I don't struggle to motivate myself."

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Liverpool have not won any silverware in four years and Allen insists he and his team-mates will be striving to make sure they can bring the drought to an end in Basel.

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"When I had the chance to join this club, the ambition was to win silverware," added Allen.

"I've come close so far. Now there's another opportunity to lift a trophy, and it's an opportunity I can't wait for.

"Everyone connected with the club will give absolutely everything to try to ensure we bring that trophy home."

Allen has been named in Wales' squad for their training camp before the Euros but says he remains focused on the remaining games he has for Liverpool, and will only begin to look forward to the tournament once the club season is over.

"The Euros is something that's been there for lots of players to look forward to, I'm no different," he said.

Joe Allen on the ball in Cardiff as Wales entertain Northern Ireland
Image: Allen has won 25 international caps for Wales

"It's a great position to be in at the moment. There is so much to look forward to in terms of club football with the final coming up.

"And then once the end of the season comes, there's the international football to follow."

Liverpool will be looking to finish their season with a flourish as they prepare play their penultimate game of the Premier League season on Wednesday night against Chelsea at Anfield, live on Sky Sports 2 HD.

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