Burton Albion's newest signing Jamie Allen has revealed what Brewers fans can expect from him when he steps out onto the Pirelli Stadium pitch for the first time.

The new Albion midfielder has also shed a light on what prompted his move away from hometown club Rochdale - and he insists that he is ready to make his mark for the Brewers.

Allen joins another former Dale midfielder in Matty Lund, who signed for Burton back in May.

The pair head to the Pirelli off the back of a successful spell at Spotland, having won promotion from League Two, and then consolidating their place in League One and missing out on the play-offs by just four points last term.

With more than 100 league appearances under his belt, Allen is an old head on young shoulders, and possesses a mentality that is vital as the Brewers face another battle to stay in the Championship for only their third season in their entire history.

Jamie Allen of Burton Albion
Jamie Allen of Burton Albion

The 22-year-old - a former Rochdale captain having been handed the armband by Spotland boss Keith Allen two years ago - won't walk straight into the team into the team given the options at Nigel Clough's disposal.

Allen fancies himself as a playmaker, but the competition in midfield afforded to Clough - with the likes of Hope Akpan, Luke Murphy, Matt Palmer and Lund - ensure that the newest Pirelli arrival will have to show real quality to break into a competitive midfield.

Not that Allen is likely to be daunted by that task. Indeed, the versatile midfielder is looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead in taking his first steps into the second tier of English football.

"I'm a ball-playing midfielder, I like to be on the ball a lot and keep it moving, and set things up for other players," said Allen.

"I had some really good times (at Rochdale). I've been there since I was eight years old, so I've spent a long, long time there, but it's been enjoyable.

Jamie Allen in action for Rochdale
Jamie Allen in action for Rochdale

"I feel like I needed a new challenge and this challenge has come up and I’m ready to go really.

"I'm very excited, and I just can’t wait to get started now.

He also revealed just how Thursday's deadline-day move came about, and echoed Hill's comments in the wake of the transfer that it was a case of waiting for Burton to stump up the cash that Rochdale and Hill thought was a fair valuation of Allen's worth to the club.

The move provides another step for Allen in a career that is progressing, and with the switch comes the chance to use St George's Park - something that can't be overstated when trying to attract players to the Brewers.

"It’s come a bit quick," he added. "I didn’t expect it this morning but it came through this afternoon, so it's been rushed.

"My mind's been all over the place, really, so once I've settled down and thought about it I'll be ready for this week.

Burton Albion midfielder Jamie Allen during his time with Rochdale in League One

"The training facilities are second to none and I’m really looking forward to using them.

"He (Clough) has been watching me for a while and it means a lot that he's brought me here."