Schürrle-inspired Chelsea four points clear

Chelsea FC stretched their advantage at the top of the Premier League as André Schürrle inspired them to a derby success, while Liverpool FC moved up to second.

Going into the day a point ahead of Arsenal FC, José Mourinho's Blues made light work of west London rivals Fulham FC, with Schürrle completing a hat-trick in 17 second-half minutes to secure a 3-1 win. After failing to break through in the opening period, the German international slid his first past Maarten Stekelenburg on 52 minutes. Eden Hazard set up the second and three minutes later the 23-year-old completed his treble, before John Heitinga prodded in a consolation.

Arsenal could not match Chelsea as Jonathan Walters got the only goal of the game from the penalty spot after Laurent Koscielny had handled in the area, leaving Arsène Wenger's third-placed side four points off the pace. Above them on goal difference are Liverpool, who won 3-0 at Southampton FC courtesy of goals from Luis Suárez, Raheem Sterling and Steven Gerrard.

The Reds' city rivals Everton FC, meanwhile, are up to sixth after substitute Romelu Lukaku got the only goal of the game nine minutes from time at West Ham United FC, while Newcastle United FC also picked up three points with a 4-1 victory at Hull City AFC.