The midfielder has emphasised the team’s need to get back into Europe’s premier cup competition but also says it is important for the club to win the FA Cup

Juan Mata insists it is “crucial” for Manchester United to secure a place in next season’s Champions League.

The Red Devils currently occupy fourth spot in the Premier League but Tottenham, Liverpool and Southampton are all no more than three points behind Louis van Gaal’s side.

“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,” Mata told Sky Sports News.

“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 slipped to a 2-1 defeat away to Swansea City last Saturday but Van Gaal’s men remain just a point behind Arsenal, who they meet in the FA Cup sixth round on March 9.

“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,” said the midfielder.

“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.”

Source Goal