Allen out to help soften Henderson injury blow
Joe Allen has vowed to do all he can to help Liverpool fill the void left in midfield by the recent loss of Jordan Henderson to injury.
The captain was forced off at the halfway point of the Reds' 1-1 draw with Borussia Dortmund last Thursday and a scan later revealed damage to his knee that will require a spell on the sidelines.
Allen was Henderson's half-time replacement in the Westfalenstadion, and acquitted himself well both in that game and the 4-1 win over Stoke City at Anfield that followed.
Now, he hopes to continue making the most of the opportunities that fall his way as Jürgen Klopp's men target a successful end to the campaign.
"Losing Jordan has been the one big disappointment we've had in the last week or so. He's our captain and a key player for us," the midfielder said.
"He's going to be missed for sure but it's a case of making sure whoever starts steps up and helps the team get through what's an exciting time.
"My focus all season has been on staking a claim. Inevitably there are injuries and suspensions throughout the season so you will get opportunities.
"My aim hasn't changed. It's about trying to make sure when you get an opportunity that you take it with both hands.
"There is a lot still to play for this season and there's still a lot to achieve. I want to be a part of that."