“We started the game really well.

“We missed a lot of chances at the beginning but after that Stevie scored a great goal from a nice assist from Yossi.

“After that we continued to play well, got another goal and were really unlucky to concede just before half-time. But I think we stepped it up again in the second half and it was a well deserved result.”

Steven Gerrard netted twice and had a hand in two other goals in a stellar performance that prompted an ovation from the home supporters on his substitution 20 minutes from time.

And Kuyt added: “Stevie was great, but he always is. He scored two goals and got two assists.

“He is a great captain and showed once again how he likes to lead by example – it’s not just this game that he does it, he does it every game.

“He’s very important to us.”

Gerrard believes that the current Liverpool squad is the best with which he has been involved.

And the skipper reckons Benitez’s men can maintain their title charge for the remainder of the campaign.

“We have big players here and we will have a lot of tests and challenges to come,” said Gerrard.

“But if we keep playing like this then we will be there.

“This is the best team I have played with.

“You look around the dressing room and, from the keeper to the forwards, we have some fantastic players.

“There is a confidence that we can get over the big hurdles.”