Allen hoping to re-stake Liverpool claim by impressing against Zenit

14-Feb-2013 5:40:00 PM

The 22-year-old conceded that his recent performances have not been good enough, but insisted that he needs a chance to prove his worth and "turn things around"

Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen is looking to reverse a drop in form and impress in Thursday's Europa League last-32 first leg against Zenit St Petersburg.

The former Swansea man was a regular fixture under Brendan Rodgers following his £15 million move, after following the Reds boss to Anfield from Wales, but has featured in just two of the last nine starting line-ups.

Allen feels he has not been at his best recently, but has pinpointed Liverpool’s tricky away tie against Zenit as a chance to prove his worth.

"My form hasn't been great, especially compared to the start of the season, but that is more down to myself," he told reporters. "But I am looking forward to working hard and try to turn things around a little bit.

"I haven't played that much recently so any chance I get to participate then I'll be hoping to impress as much as I can and stake my claim.

"We were bitterly disappointed after Monday's defeat to West Brom, that goes without saying, but we have this tie to look forward to and refocus."