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Joe Allen insists he’s happy to wait until the summer for his future to be decided as the midfielder looks to force his way into Liverpool’s Europa League final line up.

The Wales international impressed once again in Sunday’s 2-0 win over Watford at Anfield with boss Jurgen Klopp full of praise for his classy performance.

However, Allen has just one year remaining on his current deal and the Reds have yet to open talks over a new contract.

Asked about his contract situation, Allen told the ECHO: “I can’t say there have been any changes on that.

“The manager has said that between now and the end of the season it’s not the right time to talk about those things.

“I think that works out well for everyone.”

Allen, who has been linked with a return to his former club Swansea City, has staked a strong claim to be part of Klopp’s long-term plans.

The manager revealed how in the pre-match meeting on Sunday he had urged his team to “play Joe Allen football”.

“It was a nice compliment from the manager,” he said.

“It’s always a boost when you hear things like that. But he’ll have to explain what he means by that!

“It was a good day and I was just pleased to help the team win.

“My target is always to develop and improve as a player. In the past few months I’ve had more game time and that’s been great for myself.

“It’s helped build up my level of performances to a better standard.”

'Of course there is an added incentive'

The 26-year-old is hoping to retain his place for Wednesday night’s last home game of the season against Chelsea.

Allen, who came off the bench in the second leg against Villarreal, is desperate to prove he should start against Sevilla in next week’s Europa League final.

“With the final looming we want to use every opportunity we get out there on the pitch to build momentum,” he said.

“Any time you step out for this team, you are playing to prove you should be involved in the next game, whatever that game is.

“But of course there is an added incentive in some ways when there’s a final coming up.

“It was important how we were able to freshen things up against Watford after Thursday night’s tough game and still be able to get the result.

“Thursday was a huge game and the atmosphere was incredible. But my personal mindset is that when I cross that white line my focus is always on performing and helping the team, regardless of who we’re playing. I don’t struggle to motivate myself.

“Now it’s Chelsea and that’s a fixture this club always looks forward to.

“It’s a good one to have as our last home game of the season. Let’s hope we can perform again, get a result and keep building momentum.”

'I want silverware'

Allen is coming into form at the perfect time. Next week’s Europa League final will be followed by him linking up with the Wales squad ahead of the European Championships in France.

He wants to go to the Euros as a trophy winner.

“When I had the chance to join this club, the ambition was to win silverware,” Allen added.

“I’ve come close so far. Now there’s another opportunity to lift a trophy and it’s an opportunity I can’t wait for.

“Everyone connected with the club will give absolutely everything to try to ensure we bring that trophy home.

“The Euros is something that’s been there for lots of players to look forward to and I’m no different. It’s a great position to be in at the moment.

“There is so much to look forward to in terms of club football with the final coming up. And then there’s the international football to follow.”