Sterling: Kop display left me in awe

The Kop was at its vociferous best as the Reds dismantled Spurs 4-0 to climb to the summit of the Barclays Premier League table with six games left to play.

Sterling claims it was the loudest he's ever heard Anfield - and insists such support can make an impact on the final matches of the campaign.

He said: "It was a great atmosphere, the best I've seen. It is a credit to the fans.

"It is the first time I have seen the fans like that. I've heard about it in the Champions League - but it was great to see it, not only on Sunday but against Sunderland in midweek.

"The manager said beforehand that it was great to have them behind us, our 12th man. The atmosphere coming to the stadium and in the stadium was really good.

"From what I've heard from the likes of Jon Flanagan and Stevie, the atmosphere [for Champions League games] is something to dream about. As players, we know what the dream is, we are working hard for it, and hopefully that dream can become a reality.

"It feels like we are in a good moment. There is a real belief from the fans and a togetherness between the fans and players. Long may it continue."

Liverpool will aim to maintain their position at the top of the table when they travel to West Ham United on Sunday.

The Reds also have to face the teams in second and third in the standings - Chelsea and Manchester City - at Anfield before the conclusion of the season.

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"It is going to be difficult with those two coming here, but we'll take it as it comes," Sterling continued.

"We really fancy ourselves against anyone coming here, but we will take it step by step and try to do the business when they come.

"Are we allowing ourselves to dream? Definitely. I think as the season goes on we have a bit more belief but we can't get ahead of ourselves, we have to take it game by game. But coming to the last six games there is a really good atmosphere at the training ground."

On a personal note, Sterling marked a recall to the starting line-up with an outstanding display against Tottenham - and he was satisfied with his afternoon's work.

He said: "It was disappointing being on the bench for the last two games, but I knew I had to be ready if I was called back. I am grateful to the manager for having the belief to put me in for a big game and happy the team got the win.

"It was a great team performance and I thought the boys did really well. We've been working really hard in training and it was great to get the three points."

Sterling has enjoyed a fine campaign, making 32 appearances and scoring seven goals so far.

He attributes his form to the confidence and faith shown in him by the manager, Brendan Rodgers.

"I think my work-rate and my confidence have improved," he stated. "I'm working for the team, pressing and really trying to get on the front foot.

"It is great to have a manager who has belief in you. As a young player that is what you cry out for. I am just grateful to have a manager like that at this club."

Sterling's performances were rewarded with a recall to the England set-up and a second international cap against Denmark last month.

With the World Cup finals looming this summer, the 19-year-old is hopeful he can secure a ticket to Brazil, particularly as his Spurs display was observed first-hand by Three Lions assistant coach, Ray Lewington.

"I hope he will have seen that I worked really hard for the team and it wasn't just about going forward," he pondered.

"I also now have the confidence to go and play as I have got players like Luis [Suarez] and Stevie [Gerrard] giving me encouragement. It's a credit to them.

"High-end players like Steven Gerrard will always make sure that your feet are firmly on the floor."