Fernando Torres is injured against Aston Villa back in August 2008

“When Fernando is on top form, I don’t think anybody could argue that he is the best striker in the world. To not have him fit is so frustrating.

“But it’s important that people don’t single out me or Fernando. The whole team has been playing very well of late. It’s a pleasure to play in this team at the moment.”

Substitute Ryan Babel added Liverpool’s third late on to keep up the pressure on leaders Manchester United, although the Old Trafford club now need only four points from their last three games to win a third successive title.

Of Saturday’s game, Gerrard said: “West Ham had certain parts of the game they controlled but if you look at the 90 minutes as a whole, the result was never in doubt.

“The early goal gave us a platform to go on and win comfortably. It’s difficult to watch United when they are playing so well and winning games, but it’s important we keep winning.

“We want to win the league. United are still in the box seat, but while it is still possible we’ll keep our fingers crossed and hope they slip up.”

Nevertheless, Gerrard has reiterated his belief that Liverpool are not far off possessing a championship-winning squad.

“I don’t think the team needs a lot of tweaking done to it,” he said. “This season we have shown we have made massive strides. Every squad needs strengthening, but I don’t think this one needs massive changes. The players that are here and the squad we have are very good. If we can get some in that make it even stronger, then we want them.”