Stoke midfielder Joe Allen confident he can keep scoring goals
Tuesday 1 November 2016 23:33, UK
In-form Stoke midfielder Joe Allen is optimistic that he can continue to find the net regularly now he is playing in a more advanced position.
The Wales international made a £13m move to Stoke from Liverpool during the summer, having found himself struggling for playing time due to Jurgen Klopp's array of talent in midfield and attack.
Allen has been given a chance to line up in a more attacking midfield role by Stoke boss Mark Hughes and the switch has paid dividends.
The 26-year-old has already netted six times for club and country, and set up two goals for Wilfried Bony in the Potter's 3-1 win over Swansea on Monday Night Football.
"I think everyone knows that the goalscoring record I've had in the past has not been the best," said Allen.
"But I maintain the confidence that, if I'm asked to play further forward, I can get into positions where I will chip in with a few.
"I believe this isn't just a flash in the pan and I can keep this consistency going."
Allen believes playing at international level with players such as Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey, and alongside some of Liverpool's creative talent, has proved invaluable.
"With Wales you've got the likes of Gaz and Aaron and there is so much you can learn from them," he added.
"But also the players I was fortunate enough to play with at Liverpool.
"Players like [Philippe] Coutinho and [Adam] Lallana have played in a similar sort of role to the one I'm playing now - you try to pick up a thing or two from them."
Regarding his summer change of scenery, he added: "I enjoyed my time at Liverpool and learned so much but it was time to move on.
"There is so much quality in a team like that and you have to find a new challenge.
"I was excited about coming to a club like Stoke and staking a claim for a place, but I was confident I had a lot to bring to this team and I could be an important player for them.
"I think that makes all the difference to you when you're maybe given a bit more responsibility and licence to express yourself a bit more."
