Manchester United attacking midfielder Juan Mata expects his side’s Premier League title rivals to drop points over the coming weeks and months of the season.

The Red Devils have made an indifferent start to the season, as they currently lie sixth in the overall standings, eight points behind league leaders Liverpool.

Jose Mourinho’s men secured their first victory in five top-flight matches at Swansea last time out, and Spain international Mata remains convinced his side are still in the hunt to win the title, as he expects all the teams at the top of the division to drop points.

“It’s true that our start to the season didn’t go as we had hoped for, but we are there,” Mata said.

“The Premier League is a competition in which all the big clubs drop points and we remain hopeful that we can get closer to the top positions.”

The 28-year-old has been pleased with his own form during the opening months of the season, scoring two goals in his nine league appearances to date, and he is keen for that run continue during the rest of the campaign.

He added: “I’m enjoying myself on the pitch and things are going well for me. I’ve had a good month and I want to continue to showcase my talent on the pitch.”

United are next in action when they take on Arsenal at Old Trafford on November 19, and they are available at 2.60 to secure all three points from the match, while the Gunners are priced at 2.75 and the draw is on offer at 3.10.