Joe Allen is ready to test himself against former Welsh international robbie Savage at Derby today

The Swansea City midfielder says that coming face to face with the likes of Savage is always a big challenge but one that he is looking forward to when they line up this afternoon.

Allen told the Western Mail I’ve played against him twice now

“The game at Derby last year especially was an experience for me.

“He left his foot in a couple of times, but you expect that and he’s still a player you enjoy testing yourself against.

“Because of the type of player he is, you know it’s going to be tough and it’s a battle. But you look forward to those challenges as a player.

“And it’s nothing malicious with him – he’s great off the pitch, you just know you’re in for a tough afternoon on it.

We spoke briefly after that Wales game against Scotland

“He was great,” Allen said. “He told me he thought I did well when I came on and that’s really nice to hear because, whatever people think of him, he’s a player who’s been there and done it. He’s been at the top level, played international and Premier League football for years and been around the game a long time. So he’s someone you should respect.

“He didn’t have to go out of his way like that and perhaps that’s a side people don’t see.

“We try not to get hung up on the fact we probably should have got four more points from the last two games,” said Allen.

“It won’t do you any favours thinking along those lines because it can affect what you’re trying to achieve.

“I think it’s important for us to get a win to put all that behind us, but it’s always important for us to get a win.

“And it won’t mean we’ll be going gung-ho for the points. We just have to play the same way we have this year and have faith that our quality will win us the match.”

SOURCE: http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/swansea-city-fc/2010/02/20/savage-test-one-that-excites-young-swan-joe-allen-91466-25874614/?

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