Steven Gerrard has expressed his pride at being crowned Liverpool ECHO Sports Personality of the Year as he vowed to "keep fighting" for the Premier League title.

The Reds skipper admits the honour of landing the coveted silver trophy for a second time in his glittering career helped lift his spirits following last weekend's devastating 2-0 defeat to Chelsea.

Gerrard's slip was punished for the opening goal at Anfield but the talismanic midfielder now has his sights set on Monday night's trip to Crystal Palace.

"When you receive an individual award that's voted for by people who watch the games week in week out, it's always extra special," Gerrard told the ECHO.

"It lets me know that I'm doing my job properly, especially considering the company I play in.

"I'm surrounded by world class players - not just in Liverpool but over the park at Everton too.

"It's such a tough award to win and I suppose it has put a slight smile on my face after the week I've had. I'm really flattered and humbled.

"I've had a tough week but on I go and I'll keep fighting until the end."

Gerrard, who won the trophy for the first time back in 2000, was recognised for his immense contribution to the Reds' title challenge.

His tally of 13 Premier League goals so far this season represents his best haul since 2008/09.

The 33-year-old has also contributed 10 assists and his leadership qualities have been vital for Brendan Rodgers' side.

Gerrard beat off competition from clubmates Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge as well as Everton duo Ross Barkley and Seamus Coleman.

Swimmer Francesca Halsall, athlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson, rugby league star James Roby and darts champion Stephen Bunting were also short-listed.

"I've experienced it before and gone in amongst some special names so to join them once again is a fantastic feeling," Gerrard added.

"Even to get close to winning an award like this is an achievement because there is so much talent around in this area, and not just in football.

"The ECHO covers a wide range of sports and as footballers we are lucky enough to be in amongst some great sportsmen and sportswomen.

"To actually get my name on that trophy once is fantastic, to do it twice is unbelievable.

"I'll certainly be fighting over the last two weeks of this season and the remaining years of my career to try to make it a hat-trick.

"That's what I do. I try to set standards every single day to be the best. I'll continue to do that.

"It's a fantastic award. Whoever wins it in future should feel the same way as I do now."

Source: Liverpool Echo