Gerrard has a reputation for seizing the moment, scored hat-trick. All three of his goals came from set-pieces, including two penalties, offered clues as to Villa’s failings, but with their captain in the form of his life he has 21 goals in all competitions this season.

Liverpool have hit a hot run of form, thrashing Real Madrid and Manchester United in succession, and entertain Aston Villa today hoping for a win that would close the gap at the top of the league table.

Speaking to News of the World, Gerrard has insisted that having gone 19 years without a league title the Anfield outfit can think about little else.

“There is an obsession with the league here and there always will be until we win it, but it can be a healthy one,” he explained.

“We all think about it all the time. I know it’s something I’ll be thinking about until we finally do it. That’s why I’ll always put the league before the Champions League. I’m sure every Liverpool fan will say exactly the same.”

“I sense everyone is really looking forward to every game between now and the end of the season. There’s a buzz around here I can’t remember for a long, long time,” he confessed.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’d rather be in United’s position than ours, but now people aren’t expecting us to win the league it could have worked to our advantage.”

“I get the feeling there’s a confidence around Liverpool with everyone just wanting to give everything for the last nine league games. We can do no more than try to win every match. It still might not be enough, but at least we can make sure United have to work hard to win this title and keep breathing down their necks.”

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