Joe Allen: Everton victory a 'big marker' for Reds under Klopp
Liverpool's 4-0 win over city rivals Everton was a 'big marker' in their development as a team under Jürgen Klopp, according to Joe Allen.
The Reds were untouchable at Anfield as they brushed Roberto Martinez's men aside in one of the most convincing Merseyside derby victories of recent years.
Although Klopp and his staff had never experienced the fixture before prior to Wednesday, Allen insists its importance was not lost on anyone at Melwood in the build-up.
And he believes the impressive nature of the result can act as a fillip going into a crunch period of the season, which continues with the visit of Newcastle United to L4 this weekend.
He told Liverpoolfc.com: "It’s a huge boost. To go into derby day and get a result like that, playing as well as we did, and have a game as one-sided as that – there’s not much more you can ask for, really.
"We had the excitement of the Dortmund result and the atmosphere carried through from that game. I think the crowd were excellent again on Wednesday and it was a night to remember.
"It’s a big marker for us. You could see, even though it was the first derby for the manager and the new staff, just how much they were looking forward to it.
"They realised how much it means to supporters, to the city, and I think the players had the same approach.
"We wanted to give everything in the game and to do it so emphatically, the confidence that will give us going into some important games now, it’s going to be a big boost."
The win against the Toffees made it four consecutive victories in all competitions for Liverpool, three of which came at Anfield and saw the Reds net on four occasions.
Allen says the momentum Klopp's team have generated of late is palpable, and he also thinks it is having a positive effect on his performances from a personal perspective.
"You can sense we’ve taken a step forward in recent weeks, the performances and results have shown that and we’re moving in the right direction, which is great," he added.
"Games like Wednesday night are going to be huge going into [facing] the semi-final in the Europa League and Newcastle as well.
"I think things have gone pretty well for me recently and I’ve probably had more game time now than in other parts of the season, which has been great on a personal note.
"I think you always build momentum when you’re part of winning team performances."
The fans, too, appear to have noted the Welshman's recent fine form, with his introduction from the bench against Everton prompting a noticeably warm reception.
Reflecting on the supporters' backing, he said: "That reception they’ve given me in the last couple of games has been huge for me.
"I’m really grateful for the support they’ve shown me as an individual. I’m hoping, given the chance, I can reward their support with some good performances."