Joe Allen has found himself nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award for October. 

The Welshman has been nominated alongside Diego Costa, Eden Hazard, N’golo Kante, Philippe Countinho, Ilkay Gundogan and Tom Heaton.

Allen’s form in front of goal has coincided with the Potters upturn in form. Dubbed “The Welsh Xavi” by supporters, Allen has found the net three times and assisted his team-mates twice.

Goals secure points at Old Trafford and Bet365 Stadium

Allen scored atap in away at Old Trafford that earned Stoke their first point away at Manchester United in years. His second and third came the following week at home to Sunderland, where his two first-half goals were enough to earn Stoke their first three points of the season.

His two assists came in City’s most recent victory, at home to Swansea City, where he combined with former Swansea man Wilfried Bony, seeing Stoke earn their third win in succession.

Allen's form impressing Mark Hughes

The Potters signed Joe Allen from Liverpool for £13m after he found himself out of favour under Jurgen Klopps’ reign. Ironically, it was Allen’s penalty that was the decider between the two sides when they met in the Capital One Cup semi-final, smashing Stoke’s dreams of Wembley.

Joe Allen has continually impressed Potters boss Mark Hughes too. Allen's fellow countryman said he has "been delighted" with the form the 26-year-old has produced since the summer. 

"He’s not only a technically gifted and very talented player, he’s added goals." He continued.

Hughes stated the goals have been a "bonus" because many "did not anticipate that" before proclaiming that Allen's "demeanour and his personality have added to the group as well".

Allen seems to be enjoying his more advanced role at the Bet365 Stadium. The Wales international has found himself deployed in a deeper role in the past but has adjusted well to his change in position.

“I’m not used to having my back to goal as much but I am really enjoying it” Allen commented.

“The license and freedom to get involved further up the pitch is what I love doing and so long as I can chip in with some goals and create some chances.”

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About the author
Nathan Shelley
Sports PR & Journalism student at Staffordshire Univeristy