The former Swansea man admits he has endured a tough time since joining the Merseysiders but insists he is ready to move forward in a more advanced role at Anfield

Joe Allen admits he is keen to get back on track after a tumultuous first campaign with Liverpool and an injury-riddled start to this season.

The Wales international faded after a promising start to his debut season at Anfield following a £15 million move from Swansea, and a hamstring injury has disrupted his progress this term.

But now Allen insists he is ready to move forward with his career as he looks to make his return against Newcastle at the weekend.

“I’ve been pretty open – last year didn’t quite go as well as I would have hoped,” he told Liverpool’s official website.

“There were certain games and moments where I did well – the key is to get that consistently.

“A lot of people have spoken to me, fellow players have said about moving to a different club for the first time. It is the first time I have experienced that.

“That’s out of the way now, so hopefully I’m a year on and a year more experienced because of that.”

Allen went revealed he would relish the opportunity to play in a more advanced role, a position he has previously occupied for boss Brendan Rodgers.

“If I have the chance to play further forward, like I did in pre-season, goals are obviously another big one that I’d like to add a bit more to my game,” he added.

“It’s something I felt was coming at Swansea, and last season sort of stopped a little bit. That’s something I think I can offer looking forward.”