Joe Allen says his starring role as a No 10 for Stoke has been aided by gleaning tips from the likes of Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Philippe Coutinho.
The Welshman is thriving in the new advanced position given to him by Mark Hughes, providing two assists against Swansea on Monday night to add to four goals so far this season.
Hughes admitted he only thought of deploying Allen further ahead from his usual place in deep midfield once the 26-year-old started training after his £13million summer move from Liverpool.
And Allen admits that watching some of Europe's finest creators at close quarters for club and country has proved invaluable.