Lucas Leiva has stated his belief that his return from injury will help Liverpool get the best out of Joe Allen.

During the Brazilian's recent three-month spell on the sidelines, summer signing from Swansea City Allen had been forced to play in a more defensive role in the Liverpool midfield.

However, upon Lucas's return against Southampton yesterday afternoon, Allen was deployed in a more advanced position and earned a number of plaudits for his display.

"I didn't have that much time to work with Joe on the pitch because he came towards the end of the pre-season and afterwards I was injured," Lucas told the club's official website.

"But we could see Joe getting forward to join the attack and create chances. That's what he used to do at Swansea so he feels very comfortable there knowing that we will always be behind the ball and trying to cover."

Lucas managed to play 88 minutes before he was substituted against the Saints.