Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has admitted that his two-goal performance in Sunday’s victory over Liverpool was his best since joining the club.

The Spaniard scored a brace, including a wonderful scissor-kick, as United triumphed 2-1 at Anfield, with Daniel Sturridge pulling a goal back for the hosts after substitute Steven Gerrard was sent off after
38 seconds of his second-half substitute appearance.

Mata’s twin strike could prove crucial in the race for Champions League football next season as the victory leaves United fourth in the Premier League table, five points clear of fifth-placed Liverpool with eight games remaining.

Speaking after the final whistle, Mata admitted he was delighted with his performance

“I think it’s my best game in a United shirt, yes. It’s a massive game, probably the biggest in English football, so to score two goals is great for me,” he told Sky Sports.

“The second goal has to be up there with my best. After Steven Gerrard was sent off we needed a second goal because they pushed us to the end.

“It was important for me. The last few months I’ve not had the best moment. It is the manager who decides but I’m happy today.”

Manchester United can move a step closer to securing a top-four finish when they host struggling Aston Villa in their next league outing on April 4 and are priced at 1.32 to record a fifth straight league win.