Frustrated Liverpool Midfielder Desperate for Chance to Impress Rodgers

Joe Allen admits that it is has been a somewhat frustrating start to the season as he attempts to force his way back into a Liverpool team enjoying an impressive run of form.

Injuries have somewhat halted his progress this season as he has been able to make just four appearances for the club, with his only start coming in the Capital One Cup victory over Notts County.

He has been back to full fitness for a number of weeks but has struggled to convince manager Brendan Rodgers that he deserves a starting berth in a side that has lost just twice in the league and sit second in the table.

Allen admits he is impatient for an opportunity but has picked out Martin Skrtel as a prime example of a player who was seemingly well out of favour but is now one of the first names on the teamsheet.

"Martin is the perfect example for anyone who feels frustrated or impatient when they are not in the side," Allen told the official Liverpool website.

"He's done brilliantly and my idea is to do the same. Dealing with not being in the team can be tough, but it's part and parcel of football.

"There will be occasions when you are out of the side. If that's the case, you have to do everything to put yourself forward for selection again.

"The more you get back out on the pitch, the more things will start to flow properly again. I can't wait to get my chance."

The former Swansea midfielder is desperate to gain regular game time in order to prove his worth to Rodgers and has even admitted that he may have to feature for the Under-21 side in order to get his sharpness back.

"You have to do a lot of training and you just need to keep plugging away. There is the option of playing for the U21s if necessary and there are practice matches too," he added. "All of that is necessary to get back in shape.

"Wales also have a match and hopefully I can play a part in that. If I'm selected, it would be good to get some game time. That would be beneficial."