London, Dec 30 (ANI): Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has termed the club’s ace player Fernando Torres as the best striker in the world.

Torres hit a 93rd-minute winner for his 50th Kop league goal in a new Liverpool record of just 72 games.

“Everyone knows that when Fernando is on form he is the best in the world, the best bar none. He can score goals like this one, goals out of nothing even after he has experienced a quiet game. That’s what makes him so special. This is a massive result for us, a huge win. It could spark the run that drives us into the top four,” Gerrard said.

Torres escaped the Villa defence just once but that was all he needed as he finished lethally from 12 yards, The Sun reports.

“This will help our confidence so much,” Torres said.

Liverpool were second-best at snowy Villa Park but victory moved them to within four points of the last Champions League place.

Boss Rafa Benitez repeated his guarantee that Liverpool can claim fourth spot in the Premier League.

“We knew we had to win if we wanted to remain in contention for the Champions League. There was no question about it. I’m so pleased for Fernando, so happy for everyone. If my players do what they can, if they keep repeating their best form, we will be there,” Benitez said. (ANI)