Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has described Joe Allen as "a revelation" for the Merseyside club.
Rodgers signed Allen from his former club Swansea City for £15 million in the summer transfer window.
The 22-year-old has had a promising start to his career at Anfield, but has seen his form drop somewhat in recent weeks. However, Rodgers has backed his midfielder to hit the heights once again, putting his performances down to various reasons, including the arrival of his new child.
Rodgers said: "I think he's stepped up. Joe has come in and the biggest credit you can give him is the supporters have really taken to him.
"In the last couple of games he's not been at the level he would want to be but there are all sorts of reasons: he's been playing a lot and he's just become a father so he's had many sleepless nights.
"But he will be a revelation for the club. He's been terrific and I am sure that will continue over the next number of years."
Liverpool face Swansea at the Liberty Stadium in Sunday's early kickoff, marking Rodgers and Allen's first return since leaving the Welsh club.
Sam Hughes
