After recently admitting his performances over the past few months have been disappointing, midfielder Joe Allen hopes playing a key role in Wales' midfield against Austria can spark a return to the form he showed when first arriving at Liverpool.

"Everyone knows my form hasn’t been great," he said, revisiting a subject he first broached towards the end of January. "It’s been disappointing not to have been involved in every game, but it’s up to me now to work hard and get myself back in the team and improve my level of performance.

"It happens to everyone in football. We all have highs and lows. But I’m excited and looking forward to turning that around."

For Allen, the chance to play in one of the week's less prestigious friendlies away from the spotlight at Liverpool could be just what the player needs to rebuild confidence—though Allen doesn't believe the increased pressure at his new club is at the root of his recent struggles.

"I started well," he added. "In terms of settling in, that hasn’t been a problem. There’s no magic formula or reason why I haven’t been playing well. I’m sure that will change.

"I want to improve all aspects of my game. I’m a perfectionist and maybe that’s part of my problem. Sometimes I get frustrated and disappointed when things aren’t perfect."

Hopefully, both for Allen and Liverpool, tonight's friendly will help him find the return to form he seeks.

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