Mata: Goal Will Boost Fellaini

Juan Mata thinks Marouane Fellaini's confidence will receive a huge boost from his goal in Manchester United's EFL Cup semi-final first-leg win against Hull.

Fellaini has been a divisive figure at Old Trafford since joining the club in 2013 and, after giving away a penalty which allowed former club Everton to snatch a draw in December, was booed by some United fans at their next first home match.

Jose Mourinho has stood by the Belgium international and, after coming off the bench to score United's second goal in their 2-0 win against Hull, Fellaini celebrated by hugging his manager on the touchline.

Mata, who scored United's first goal, said: "Maybe Marouane feels that the manager has belief in him and that is why he celebrated like that.

"I am very happy for Marouane, because he has had difficult times since he came to the club, but he is a great guy.

"He is a great person, he trains always the best he can. I am delighted for him.

"It was an important goal for him and, when you come onto the pitch in the second half, you are always trying to do something to change the game, and he did that.

"He always gets on very well with everyone. Since I came here he was a good friend of mine and everyone in the dressing room.

"Everybody was happy for his goal. When a team-mate is not in the best situation and it is difficult for him, we have to be there to support him.

"I think this will be a boost for his confidence. It was good to hear the stadium singing his name, because he deserved it."

Mata thinks the goal could prove to be a significant one in Fellaini's United career.

"He is 29 so he has lived many things in football but it is not nice when you play in your own stadium and you have not the best atmosphere," the Spaniard added.

"But now it is different and it has changed. I think it is going to be positive for him in the future.

"It makes it easier for you as a player when you feel the confidence of everyone. You feel an even better player.

"Confidence is very important for any player and hopefully Marouane now has his back."

Credit: Skysports.com