Joe Allen: Veteran Swansea City midfielder aims to prove he is worth a new contract
- Published
Joe Allen has scored twice in his last eight appearances
Joe Allen says the "fire is still there" despite his injury issues as he bids to secure a new contract at Swansea City.
Allen, who turned 34 this week, sees his current deal expire at the end of the season.
The former Wales midfielder hopes to convince Swansea's hierarchy he is worth a new contract.
"It's one for the end of the season, we have got some football to play," Allen said.
"I have played more recently and I am ambitious to stay in the team between now and the end of the season. Then it will be the right time to discuss anything.
"The fire is still there for me."
Allen is expected to start Saturday's south Wales derby against Cardiff City as he continues his best run of form - and fitness - this season.
He had been due to feature in the reverse fixture at Cardiff last September, but pulled up in the warm-up with a groin injury which led him to having an operation.
Allen did not return to action until late December, with his first league start of the season coming a month ago against Ipswich.
He has now started four of Swansea's last five games - he came on as a substitute in the other after being rested initially at Watford - and is hoping to stay fit and play his part as Luke Williams' side look to pull clear of relegation danger.
Allen has made 20 appearances in total this season, having managed 28 last term following his free transfer move from Stoke City in the summer of 2022.
"When you are on the operating table you worry what will happen, but chances have improved for me in recent weeks," Allen added.
"I still have to do a lot more before there is any confirmation there will be something for me [in terms of a contract offer].
"I think as an older player it's a standard mindset to have that you need to show you are worth another contract."
Allen is poised for the sixth south Wales derby appearance of his career this weekend, having won three times and lost only once in the fixture.
"I cannot wait," he said. "It's a huge game, it's one everyone looks forward to home or away. It's no different for me and the rest of the lads."
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