The English international scored twice in the first half (2 and 38), before Ryan Babel hit a third on 84 minutes to send Liverpool top of the table.

The Reds are now joint leaders with Manchester United, who have two games in hand over the Merseyside club.

Rafael Benitez's men started and ended the game on top, as their hosts seemed helpless throughout the whole encounter.

A brilliant through pass from Fernando Torres released Gerrard through early on. The skipper finished by rounding Robert Green and slotting in the empty net.

Liverpool were awarded a penalty in the 37th minute after Luis Boa Morte fouled Torres in the area.

Gerrard's initial shot was saved by Green before the midfielder scored from the rebound.

Dutch Winger Ryan Babel wrapped up his team's win by beating Green also on the rebound from close range six minutes from time.

Gianfranco Zola's West Ham remain ninth in the Premiership table with 48 points.