(Manchester United News)
In his latest blog on his personal website, shared with ManUtd.com, Juan Mata discusses in-form team-mate Ander Herrera and looks ahead to Sunday's Manchester derby...
Hi everyone. I’m writing to you after a weekend full of good feelings. As you know, the Premier League, and all the European leagues, resumed after the international break and I was eager to play again after the good vibes we had in Anfield.
It was on Saturday, and it was a great day at Old Trafford. The team performed at a very high level, we fought from the very first minute to win the game and we were able to score in decisive moments to make things difficult for Aston Villa. We tried to use both wings and circulate the ball fast, and actually that’s how we scored. Three great goals, I’d say.
Wayne’s goal was spectacular, really nice to watch; not many players can score a goal like that. And two more goals from Ander. I think this is the first time he scores twice in a game and I’m very happy for him! The truth is he deserves it. He is a genius on and off the pitch and I know how happy he was after the game.
The team is improving. This is our fifth consecutive win in the Premier League and we want to keep this streak going. Winning the derby against City on Sunday could be very important for the battle in the top four. A derby is always special and we must be careful with City’s attacking players, because they can win the game in an isolated play.
In Spain, things are also very exciting in the top four. First came Atletico’s win, followed by Real Madrid’s 9-1, with five goals from Cristiano Ronaldo. Valencia drew against a good Villarreal and Barcelona beat Celta with a goal from Mathieu, my former Valencia team-mate. Starting Tuesday we have a new week in La Liga's calendar with good games scheduled, so things will remain very exciting at the top and bottom of the table.
When I went back home from Old Trafford I could watch some football on TV and I want to highlight the names of Thiago Alcantara, a superb footballer and friend, who is back to a football pitch after a long and tricky injury, and David Barral for his hat-trick with Levante. I also wish Iker Muniain a speedy recovery, I hope his injury is not as serious as it seemed. Cheer up, crack!
Of course, talking about great moments of the weekend, Charlie Adam’s goal was incredible. It’s so difficult to score from that far, even more against a goalkeeper like Courtois. It reminded me of Rooney’s goal at West Ham last season, or Beckham a few years ago against Wimbledon. What is your favourite goal from long range?
Lastly, I hope you have had a happy Easter. My birthday is coming and I have a surprise for you! Have a nice week. Hugs!
Juan
