Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has been hailing the progress of 24-year-old Joe Allen in recent weeks with the Reds boss saying that he is starting to become one of the top midfielders in the Premiership.
Following an injury plagued first 18-months on Merseyside the Welshman has managed to work his way back into Rodgers starting XI, and was one of the top players in last weekend’s 3-0 win at Old Trafford.
Rodgers speaking to the Liverpool Echo said: “Joe was outstanding at Old Trafford, he covered more ground than anybody, and he pressed the ball and passed the ball well.
“I believe he is one of the top Premier League talents. He came here, and started in the first three months remarkably well. He was the supporters’ player of the month in that time.
“He then had a little difficult period, trained very well but then got injured, so his first season was up and down, purely in terms of that injury.
“But I know his talent better than anyone. He had a great pre-season then unfortunately got injured again. He’s such a courageous player, in the way he passes and presses the ball.
“In this country it can be frowned upon to a certain extent. We want midfield players scoring goals, or smashing into challenges. Joe, though, is an intelligent player who protects the ball very well.
“He will prove to be an outstanding player here. He’s near the top of his game, performing well. Hopefully that continues this weekend.”
When asked about this weekend’s game against Cardiff City he said: “The focus has been purely on Cardiff City, that’s been our world this week.
“We had a wonderful performance at Old Trafford, but there hasn’t been any talk of the title. We’re just enjoying how we’re playing.
“The run in for us is the next game. We have tough games right through, starting with a very tough game against Cardiff. We can speak about the run-in when it is over.”
The Liverpool boss also commented on Steven Gerrard’s comments about him being rewarded with a new contract saying: “It gives me happiness that the captain, an iconic figure at this club, who has worked with so many great managers, would say those words.
“But I repeat, there is no focus on any individual in the final part of this season, only the team and the club.
“As manager, my aim is to earn respect of players, and ultimately the supporters. I hope both are happy with where we are at the moment.”
