Hughes: Allen can continue Stoke scoring run

Mark Hughes believes Stoke City midfielder Joe Allen could reach double figures this season if he continues to play in a more advanced role, as the Welshman prepares to face former club Liverpool.

Allen spent four seasons at Anfield but struggled to establish himself in the team – leading to a £13m move to the Potteries last summer.

The 26-year-old now plays in a more attacking midfield role and already has five top-flight goals – more than he accumulated in his entire Liverpool career.

But Hughes says Allen has always had attacking qualities and does not believe his goal scoring run has been a one-off, as the Potters travel to Jurgen Klopp’s side on Tuesday.

Photo by Steve Welsh/Getty Images

“We are delighted with the deal that was brokered with Liverpool,” he said.

“I decided to move him into a more attacking role, having seen his qualities, especially his anticipation, in training.

“Logically, because he can anticipate things in a more defensive role we thought he could anticipate them in the penalty area too.

“I think he could go close to getting double figures this year which would be fantastic for us – If we can get a midfielder scoring 10 goals then that would significantly help us.”