"But the lads showed great character to put that behind us and hopefully we can go on a good run now."

Gerrard praised his England team-mate, saying: "We saw what Glen will offer this team with the run that won the penalty at Spurs.

"He cut inside and left people for dead. He showed similar form against Stoke and was outstanding on the right for us."

Stoke boss Pulis witnessed his side being pulled apart by Johnson’s display and the partnership with Dirk Kuyt.

Pulis said: "Johnson and Kuyt down the right caused us loads and loads of problems. They have great players all over the pitch. Not only (Fernando) Torres and Gerrard, who are world class.

"(Yossi) Benayoun comes in off the left flank and does damage, and they attack you at every point."

Benitez’s decision to add an attacking full-back to his squad who could make an impact in tough home games where teams defend in depth was vindicated.

The Spanish coach said: "We were looking for a player with quality going forward, to produce more chances from the wide areas.

"We knew Johnson could score goals. From set-pieces he is dangerous, we initially worked with (Javier) Mascherano in that close-in position by the keeper at corners, but decided to change because Johnson was proving to be good in that role.

"His goal was proof of that. He can give us something more on the right, he can play almost as a winger with good distribution when he goes forward.

"And that allows Kuyt to move inside also to support Torres. Last season we had too many home draws, and that cost us.

"I felt that an attacking full-back like Johnson would give us something extra, and his display underlined that view."

Benitez also dismissed wild speculation that he was about to quit, with one radio chat show even saying that he had resigned during the afternoon and Sammy Lee was in charge.

Speculative betting also helped create a situation that Benitez laughed off, saying: "I was told at Melwood (training ground) of the rumour. But that is the sort of thing that happens in this city sometimes.

"But it is nonsense. I repeat that I have committed myself to this club, I decided to stay here for the staff, the fans and the players when I signed my new contract. Nothing has changed. My commitment is 100 per cent."