Joe Allen's response to the disappointment of defeat at Manchester City on Boxing Day was straightforward – move on and produce a similar performance against Chelsea this weekend.

The Reds were more than a match for the 2011-12 Barclays Premier League champions yesterday, but were denied any points when Philippe Coutinho's opener was followed by efforts from Vincent Kompany and Alvaro Negredo.

Afterwards, manager Brendan Rodgers sang the praises of his players for their display, and Allen insisted that his teammates should not lack confidence when they journey to Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

"It was great to be involved in a game like that, but obviously bitterly disappointing to come away with nothing," the midfielder told Liverpoolfc.com.

"The performance deserved a bit more than that, but we'll have to move on and make sure we pick up a result now at Stamford Bridge.

"[The manager said] if we play like that, nine times out of 10 we'll get a win and a result.

"We have to keep our heads up; there were lots of positives to take from today. We all know the strength of Manchester City at home. They certainly know they have been in a game today."

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The result at the Etihad Stadium meant Liverpool slipped to fourth in the Premier League standings, although Rodgers' side remain entrenched in the battle for a top-four position.

Allen reflected: "It's a big marker, especially when you consider some of the performances they have put in against the top sides at the Etihad.

"We'll take some positives. It's disappointing to lose the game, but we've got another massive challenge and opportunity at Stamford Bridge, to go and get a result there.

"This is a minor setback; we have been in good form, picked up some great results and we feel our confidence and momentum is really building.

"We're confident, we'll go there with our heads held high and make sure we perform again."