Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen hopes to start against Europa League opponents Zenit St Petersburg tonight.

Allen admits he has not performed well of late but is keen to make amends in the last-32 first-leg tie in Russia.

"My form hasn't been great, especially compared to the start of the season, but that is more down to myself," said Allen. "But I am looking forward to working hard and try to turn things around a little bit.

"I haven't played that much recently so any chance I get to participate then I'll be hoping to impress as much as I can and stake my claim.

"We were bitterly disappointed after Monday's defeat to West Brom, that goes without saying, but we have this tie to look forward to and refocus."