• Premier League

United told to prove their class

ESPN staff
March 25, 2014
ESPN FC: The battle of Manchester

Juan Mata has challenged Manchester United to prove they can beat the best in Tuesday's Manchester derby.

United, who lost 4-1 to Manchester City in September, have a dismal record in league games against the top nine under David Moyes, who has admitted to feeling the pain of his mistakes in his debut season.

In 12 matches, they have only won one and scored just seven goals and Mata, who played in the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool which Wayne Rooney branded a 'nightmare', is determined to improve that record.

The Spaniard told United Review: "We need to show we can win against the big teams. It wasn't a good game against Liverpool. Yes, they played well, but I think we can do better.

"It will be difficult because City are one of the best teams in the Premier League right now. They play great football and have a lot of quality players, but in our stadium and in front of supporters I think we can have a good game."

Mata also wants to reward the United supporters, who backed their team throughout the loss to Brendan Rodgers' side.

He added: "What we experienced in the Liverpool game was unbelievable. We lost 3-0 on a very difficult day yet when we were walking off the pitch at the end they were singing and clapping. It was amazing."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
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