Joe Allen says that he has always looked up to former Man Utd midfielder Paul Scholes
And whilst Allen will not get the chance to pit his wits against Scholes due to the midfielder’s retirement he says that some of the admiration was down to height and he often gets asked the question about his height and whether it may prevent him reaching the very top.
Joe told the Western Mail “I wouldn’t say my game is modelled on his (Scholes) but I have admired him for years
“Unfortunately I’ve come to the Premier League a year too late to play against him.
“All small players have to deal with questions at some stage in their career.
“When you are young it has some disadvantages but I always kept faith through the disappointments.
“You look at the players Barcelona have in their team and one of my idols Paul Scholes.
“Some of the best players in the world are small and it gives you inspiration.
“I’m a Man United fan and I grew up watching them every week,” said Allen. “It will be a fantastic occasion. It’s hard to believe that we are going to be hosting Manchester United at the Liberty Stadium.
“It’s a game that I will cherish and let’s hope we can get something out if it.
“Along with going to Old Trafford it’s a stand out game. I’ve been to Old Trafford as a supporter and it is almost impossible to think I could be going there as a player.
“This season is full of occasions to look out for.
“It’s been a new experience for all of us,” said Allen, who signed a four-year deal with the Swans in the summer.
“When you are on the biggest stage in club level you have to deal with that. We have got some great characters in our team, we are a good collective group and know how we have to perform on the pitch.
“There’s been changes to our life, of course, but we spoke as a team about not letting it affect us too much.
“There are positive sides that come with it and you want to keep it going in your career.
“To be a in a team competing in the Premier League is the biggest boost you can get as a player.
“Like everyone else in our team, our target is to keep Swansea in the Premier League.”