Allen Ready For Midfield Battle vs Cardiff City

Joe Allen says he's ready and prepared for the midfield battle against the 6ft 4inch Seyi Olofinjana on Sunday when the Swans face Cardiff City in the South Wales derby.

Allen, who stands at just 5ft 6, could be up against the tall Nigerian this weekend, but the young Welshman says he feels he's grown up a lot recently and is ready to do battle against the Bluebirds.

"He`s probably twice the size of me,"

"I watched Cardiff`s game against Leeds the other night and I was trying to picture myself going up against him and I`m sure others will be looking out for when we come up against each other.

"It will be interesting, but coping with that side of things is something I`ve had all the way through my career. I guess it`s obvious, but the biggest test I`ve had trying to make it professionally is the physical side of things and this is just another example of that.

"But I do feel like I`ve grown up a bit in all ways; I suppose this season I don`t feel like a kid anymore, especially during this last run of games.

"I`m still young, obviously, but I don`t feel like the youngster in the team. I feel part of things and as important as anyone else in the starting line-up. It`s that confidence that has helped me, to know that I`m offering something and I`m there on merit."

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