Mata will fight to stay at Old Trafford

Juan Mata has played down rumours linking him with a move away from Old Trafford by saying he will seize any first-team opportunities that come his way at Manchester United.

Mata has begun the last two games on the bench after Wayne Rooney returned from suspension but came on to score United’s winner against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Juan Mata, relegated to the bench for United’s last two games, scored the winner on Saturday © Getty Images

But Mata, who became United’s record signing when he joined from Chelsea for £37.1 million in January, insisted his team-mates need to follow his example and take any chances that come their way.

“What we have to do is what I did against Palace – seize every opportunity and to try to help the team,” he told Spanish station Cope. “Luckily on Saturday my goal was worth three points.”

Mata pointed to his name on the back of his shirt after finding the net against Palace, which could have been interpreted as a message to manager Louis van Gaal.

But he added: “It was an explosion of joy because the game was difficult, because we came away from several games without a victory and [the goal] was important. I’m very happy.”

Asked his opinion of his manager, Mata told Mundo Deportivo: “He is an honest person who tells you things directly to your face. He has a strong character and great football knowledge.”

Mata has scored nine goals in his last 15 games for United but has faced a battle to earn a spot in the team since the summer arrivals of Angel Di Maria and Radamel Falcao.

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