Joe Allen has admitted he feels inspired by having the chance to play alongside Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard. The Wales international endured a mixed first season at Anfield after making just 21 Premier League starts following a £15m move from Swansea City last July. Allen, who scored his only Reds goal in the Europa League this term, has earned the nickname “Welsh Xavi” due to his passing proficiency. And the 23-year-old says Gerrard has been a big help since his switch to the five-time European champions from the Welsh outfit. “I think it has to be Steven Gerrard,” Allen told Liverpool’s website. “Having the chance to play alongside someone like him is inspiring; the level of talent and ability, but also professionalism he brings is first-class and that’s why he’s one of the best players in the world.” He added: “When I first signed here, he made a great effort to make me feel welcome and settle in – that says all about him as a person. “He wants to help a lot of the younger players especially; we can all learn so much from him. Off the pitch, he’s a great influence. “He’s our leader, he’s our captain. When you see him play and you’re playing alongside him, it helps to lift you that extra little bit.” -Clarke-
Posted on: Mon, 03 Jun 2013 15:37:39 +0000