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Joe Allen has admitted he struggled under the weight of his own expectations during his debut campaign with Liverpool.

The Welsh midfielder was the Reds’ marquee signing last summer, costing £15m when joining from Swansea City.

But after a bright start, the 23-year-old’s performance levels dropped notably. His season was ended in March as he underwent surgery to cure a long-standing shoulder problem.

Allen, along with the rest of his team-mates, returned for pre-season training at Melwood last week, and is expected to play a full part in Liverpool’s gruelling friendly schedule.

But he insists he will not be setting any personal targets at Anfield this season.

He said: “I think last season I may have put myself under too much pressure with things like that.

“So it’s a case of just giving my best every day in training and in every match. That’s all I can do really.

“It’s brilliant to be back. Obviously we all enjoy our break and our holidays but at the same time we can’t wait to get back in and get started.

“Having missed the end of last season, I personally couldn’t wait to get back in. Hopefully I can put the injury behind me once and for all.

“I think for anyone, your first year at a new club can be tough in some ways, but I feel settled here now and I’m looking forward to a fresh start with the coming season. Hopefully I can put in some good performances.”