Jose Reina hails 'unselfish' Luis Suarez

Suarez set up two of Gerrard's goals (GETTY IMAGES)

Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina hailed "inspirational" captain Steven Gerrard but was keen to credit Luis Suarez for his contribution to the victory in the 217th Merseyside derby.

Gerrard stole the show with a hat-trick but Suarez, who has scored just once in his last eight league matches, was involved in all three goals and provided the final pass for the last two.

The result ended a run of three successive Barclays Premier League defeats and eased some of the goalscoring frustration the team have endured recently.

"Credit to Stevie, he was really good," said Reina.

"He was at his best once again and fully deserved his hat-trick.

"Stevie is always a key player for us. He is an inspiration, on and off the pitch.

"He showed in the game he is fully fit now and he is coming back strong, although I would like to mention Luis, especially for the third goal.

"Sometimes when a striker is not scoring they can be a little bit selfish, but he was totally unselfish in creating the goal."

Despite the win Liverpool's top-four hopes remain distant as they are 10 points behind Arsenal.

However, Reina insists they will not give up on the challenge of overhauling the Gunners.

"It's difficult. You have to be realistic, but we will fight and we won't give up until the end," he told liverpoolfc.tv

"This team has got very strong character and we will keep fighting, that's for sure."

Suarez was of the same opinion, writing on Twitter: "Very happy for the great win yesterday. Congrats to Steve for his hat-trick. Let's keep fighting."

PA