Molby: Allen can be the catalyst

Molby, who played 292 games for the Reds, insists Allen's sharpness, pace and ability to use both feet will help him settle into a playmaker's role in the middle of the park from where he can act as the catalyst for the side's forward forays.

He told Liverpoolfc.com:"If you want to be a good passing team, you need to have someone to start it all.

"A few years ago, Liverpool had Xabi Alonso, who used to start our moves for us. Joe Allen is that type of player; he gets on the ball, he gets things moving, he's very, very sharp and he's got two good feet.

"But he can also cope with the physical demands of the modern game and, as part of a three-man midfield, he can get up and down the pitch.

"I think he's going to be a very good player but I think first and foremost, he's been signed because he's going to be the catalyst to get our play going.

The 22-year-old's passing ability has drawn praise from all quarters and Molby was keen to explain how Allen's tendency to pick the right pass, when presented with a host of choices, is the attribute that will most benefit the team.

"Allen sees a pass and that's very important," said Molby. "People say that every time you get the ball, you need to have two or three options. But when you have those options, there's always a best option to pass to.

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"The more a player can see the best option, the better it is for the team. And I think that when Joe Allen is on the ball, if he has three players to pass to, more often than not, he will pick the right pass and that will benefit the team. That's very important.

"He can definitely rise to the challenge otherwise Rodgers would not have signed him. No disrespect to Swansea, but Allen is now playing at a bigger club with bigger players and Brendan feels he can step up.

"I think he's got the ability to become a top class player in the years to come. I think that's why we signed him."