Brendan Rodgers has lauded the "hunger" of his Liverpool team following their performance in the 5-1 demolition of Premier League leaders Arsenal at Anfield this afternoon.

The Reds stunned their London counterparts by racing into a 4-0 lead inside 20 minutes, with Raheem Sterling and Daniel Sturridge adding further strikes after Martin Skrtel had pounced twice in the early stages.

Mikel Arteta reduced the arrears from the penalty spot after Sterling had established a five-goal lead in the second half, and Rodgers was left hailing the "breathtaking" display from his charges.

"It was breathtaking some of our play. The intensity of our pressing and the goals were fantastic. It gave us a great platform," he told reporters.

"We've been doing it most of the season. Obviously this is a high-profile game and everyone is looking at it. The players have been brilliant with their hunger and appetite of the game."

Consequently, the Merseyside outfit move to within five points of the Gunners at the summit of the Premier League table.