'We all knew his quality' - Klopp admits Liverpool miss Allen ahead of reunion

Jurgen Klopp has conceded Liverpool miss Joe Allen after the Wales international swapped Merseyside for Stoke City during the close-season.

Allen headed for the bet365 Stadium after impressing at Euro 2016, having struggled to hold down a starting berth under both Brendan Rodgers and Klopp at Anfield.

And the 26-year-old has made a big impression since completing the switch, scoring five goals in 16 Premier League matches, with Stoke boss Mark Hughes expressing surprise this week that Liverpool allowed him to leave.

"Do we miss Joe Allen? Yes," Klopp said ahead of Tuesday's clash between the two clubs. "Unbelievable, strong player.

"We all knew his quality. He's having a big impact at Stoke.

"It was a common decision. It was clear after the last two years, not being a fixed line-up player.

"He plays a little more offensive now than what he would for us.

"If Liverpool sells a player, then they have to have a real impact at their next club. If you leave us, okay, then show us what you've learned".

Liverpool head into the clash against Stoke six points behind league leaders Chelsea in second, whereas Hughes' charges are currently 11th.