Klopp Praises Joe Allen's Performance Against Southampton

Joe Allen is seen as being Brendan Rodgers's man. He played under him at Swansea for years and was the first player the manager brought to Liverpool when he had control of the transfers. Since arriving at Anfield, Allen's not had the impact that many hoped he would, and when Rodgers made way for Klopp in early October, there was speculation that it might mean the end for Allen as well.

However, Allen, like many Liverpool players, has been having something of a renaissance under Klopp. He hasn't had much playing time, but he's done well with what he's been given and proved himself an able cog in the gegenpressing machine. Against Southampton, in particular, his football was as free flowing as his magnificent hair, and helped Liverpool to a 6-1 victory.

Speaking about the 25-year-old, Klopp made sure to praise his fine performance, but stayed coy on any discussion of a new contract for the Welshman.

"At this moment I don’t think about contracts or anything like this," Klopp said.

"This is the season we have to play. Joe did really well against Bordeaux and then it was not my easiest decision in life to leave him out against Swansea.

"I know about his story with Swansea but sometimes you cannot be the human being you want to be, you have to be the manager.

"It was okay and against Southampton he was really strong and played the perfect pass for Daniel.

"When Southampton were aggressive he had the solution in the small spaces. He is a player with quality."

Throughout his short Liverpool tenure, Klopp has made it a point not to look too far into the future. He has scoffed at the idea of challenging for the title or even top four, preferring to focus on the next game and the next. The fact that he has no interest in discussing a player's future in December, ahead of a month where the team is set to play six more games, is reasonable.

Whatever Allen's future holds, Liverpool fans can appreciate that he has worked hard this season to adapt himself to the manager's tactical approach, and made the most of the playing time he's been given.