Joe Allen: Lucas Leiva key to Liverpool style

Liverpool's Joe Allen has hailed teammate Lucas Leiva and claims his return to first team action will see the team climb back up the table.

The Welshman believes Liverpool have sorely missed the Brazilian midfielder and says he is vital to the way Brendan Rodgers' side plays.

"You're always going to miss quality players like Lucas and it's great to have him back in the side," Allen told the Liverpool Echo.

"When he pulled up injured in the Man City game it was a bitter blow. He had worked so hard to get back from the knee injury. It was a disappointing setback on a personal level but also from the football club's point of view.

"His return, with the steel and quality he brings, is only going to help the team going forward. It's a very important role.

"If you look at the top teams, they all utilise that position and have a quality player there. Lucas is vital for the way we play. With him back playing, I'm sure we'll get the benefits of that in terms of points and our position in the table."