Downing: We've got a top team
Stewart Downing admitted it was a sweet feeling to help Liverpool to a 2-0 win over Aston Villa and silence the Villa Park boo boys.
The England star had a fine match as Kenny Dalglish's side played some great football to move within three points of fourth placed Chelsea.
Downing was booed at the start of the match following his summer move from the Midlands to Anfield, but he soon silenced them by playing a part in the opening goal when his corner led to Craig Bellamy slotting home.
"It was a pleasing victory for us. I thought we started the game very well and thought we could have got a few more goals to be honest, but the most important thing is the win.
"I expected some stick but there are no problem and today is all about the team winning.
"We were by far the better team and I think it proved a point why I wanted to come to Liverpool. We've got a top team and you only have to look at the bench to see the lads who can't get a game. It just shows how strong we are and it was the right move for me at the right time.
"I enjoyed my time at Villa. They are a great club, they are great people but you move on in football, that's the way it goes.
"It was good to play a part in the first goal although it took a couple of deflections before Bellers scored, but to be fair I think we are due a bit of luck we so we'll take that.
"Martin got a great header in for our second goal which was nice because they have got some big lads in their team.
"We then could have got three or four more in the second half and hit the woodwork twice again. It's been the same story all season hitting the woodwork, but for the manager and the players the main thing is that we win games and keep progressing."
The Reds now head for Wigan Athletic on Wednesday hoping to continue their excellent form on the road and build up a great run of results over the busy festive period.
He added: "It's an exciting time and a big period for us and you can nick points here, there and everywhere. We've got some tough games and hopefully we can pick up maximum points.
"I think all season we have played quite well. I know some results haven't gone for us but apart from Tottenham we've done reasonably well.
"We've got a good squad, there's a lot of people fighting for places which is good and also very good for the manager."
