Mata Demands Top-four Finish

Juan Mata says it is crucial that Manchester United bring Champions League football back to Old Trafford next season.

United lost ground in the race for a Champions League place when they were beaten 2-1 by Swansea at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday, but Mata still remains confident the season will end on a high.

Louis van Gaal's side face Sunderland and Newcastle next in the Premier League before an FA Cup quarter-final with Arsenal on March 9 is followed by two massive games against Spurs at Old Trafford and Liverpool at Anfield.

Speaking to Sky Sports News HQ at a Manchester United Foundation initiative at Swinton High School, Mata said: "There are still a lot of games to go. We are in a race to win the FA Cup so we will try to win it because it's been a long time since the club won it and it's something very important for us.

"Obviously it's crucial for us to get into the top four at the end of the Premier League season.

"Right now, we are facing a crucial moment in the Premier League. Obviously the last 10 games are very important and we also have the FA Cup tie against Arsenal. It will be difficult but I think we have to do it because it is an important moment and we have to perform."

United's defeat to Swansea was only their second loss in 20 games, but the Spain midfielder insists they could have taken something from the game had they cashed in on their superior possession after the break.

"It's true that it wasn't a good game for us, although I think we played in their half and in the second period we were close to scoring the second goal," he added.

"But we didn't and when you play for Manchester United, everyone is expecting the best from you, to play well and to win - but obviously this is not very easy to do. We are trying to do it because the fans deserve something good."

Credit: Skysports.com