The Uruguayan made no secret of his desire to leave Anfield in the summer, with Arsenal failing to sign the striker, but has scored 17 goals in 11 games after staying on Merseyside

Luis Suarez says the forgiveness of Liverpool supporters has been key to his prolific form this season after doubts over his Anfield future during the summer.

The striker made no secret of his desire to leave the club, with Arsenal failing with two bids during the transfer window after being led to believe an offer of over £40 million would trigger a release clause.

Brendan Rodgers eventually kept hold of Suarez, who scored two goals in Sunday’s 5-0 win over Tottenham to bring his season tally to 17 goals 11 Premier League games – and the striker insists fans’ support has played its part.

“After so many difficult moments for me I was able to win the supporters back, and that was unbelievable when I came back to play,” he said after being named the 2013 Player of the Year award at Monday’s Football Supporters’ Federation Awards.

“They helped me, and that was important for me, for my confidence, and for my family, because they are together with me in this. [The award] is very special for me because my hard work on the pitch is recognised.

“Everybody knows about my problems and my difficult year, but after that I forgot everything and have been able to get back on the pitch.”

The result at White Hart Lane lifted Liverpool back to second in the league standings, with Arsenal’s lead at the top cut to two points, and Suarez underlined the importance of the entire squad’s efforts during the season.

He continued: “Liverpool are starting to reach their potential and we can play our best on the pitch. It’s very important that we stay together, we keep going, this is very important.

“If Liverpool don’t have these players I cannot continue my level, because it’s too much. They know I am important, so they try everything to stay together, that’s important for me, but it’s more important for the club.”