STEVEN GERRARD admits Liverpool’s title challenge has been hamstrung by the injury problems that have affected his forward partnership with Fernando Torres.

The talismanic duo were reunited for the first time in more than a month on Saturday as Rafael Benitez’s side kept their faint championship hopes alive with an impressive 3-0 win at West Ham United.

It was only the 12th time in 36 Premier League games this season that the pair have both started, with Gerrard’s two goals at Upton Park meaning between them they have now netted 16 goals in that period.

And Gerrard is convinced Liverpool would have had a greater chance of being closer to Premier League leaders Manchester United had he and Torres been fit for longer.

“I’ve said many times that Fernando is a top player and he is easy to play alongside,” said the Anfield skipper.

“He doesn’t just score top goals, he can set goals up as well. The frustrating thing for both of us is that we haven’t been on the pitch together far more times this season.

“It’s all ifs and buts as to whether we would have won the league had we both been fit. But it’s important that going into next season we both try and stay fit to give Liverpool the best chance of being successful.

“The pair of us feel that if we are both fit and in top form then we can cause defenders and teams problems. I’m sure you would see a lot of goals from us.”

Despite not being fully fit after missing last week’s win over Newcastle United, Torres laid on the second-minute opener for Gerrard before winning the 38th-minute penalty from which the skipper converted the rebound.

And Gerrard added: “We enjoy playing with each other, we can both score goals and we both enjoy setting each other up for goals.

“So the partnership is there, and for me it can get even better. We have an understanding and work together a lot in training.

“Without sounding big-headed, there’s a confidence when we are both out together on the football pitch that we can help win matches.