SOCCER: Steven Gerrard has hailed the table-topping Liverpool side as the best he has played in and is backing the Reds to clinch a first Premier League title.

Rafael Benitez's side will start the New Year three points clear of the chasing pack following yesterday's 5-1 thrashing of Newcastle.

Captain Gerrard, who scored twice at St James' Park, said: "We have given ourselves a great chance. We have to remain consistent, that is the key.

"If we want to stay at the top and be involved in this title race, we have got to deal with the pressure.

"We have big players here and we will have a lot of tests and challenges to come, 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."