Joe Allen has expressed his disappointment with his recent form at Liverpool, insisting he must rediscover the level of performance he showed in the early stages of the season.

Despite netting his first goal for the Reds against Oldham, the 22-year-old bemoaned his recent displays, pointing instead to matches against Arsenal and Manchester City as examples of the standard he can reach.

Allen told the club’s official website: “In recent times I think it goes without saying it [my form] has been slightly disappointing, to be honest, but I am faithful and confident that I will turn things around on a personal level.

“It’s games like Wednesday where, if I can be involved in some way, I can get my performance levels higher.

“The games against Arsenal and Manchester City earlier in the season are probably the level I am hoping to reach again and be more consistent with.

“There is no magic formula. I’ll keep working hard and keep faithful there will be another performance like that just around the corner.

Liverpool face a difficult Premier League game away at Arsenal on Wednesday night.