Gerrard pleased with performance

The Reds captain believes the team are beginning to find their form and if they can keep putting in performances like they did against Everton then a title challenge is a real possibility.

"So far it's probably our best performance," said Gerrard.

"We were winning games but stumbling early on in the season, but I think the derby performance has set the standard now and if we can continue that level then we will certainly be there or thereabouts come the end of the season.

"I think we controlled the game all the way through, though obviously there were bits of pressure from Everton. They are a good side here and they've got good support behind them but it was a statement of our intentions.

"We were together, played some terrific football and the performance showed how frustrated we were not to take maximum points from Stoke."