Juan Mata has conceded that despite Manchester United's run of six consecutive Premier League victories, their goalkeeper David de Gea has been called into action too frequently.

The Spanish custodian continued his recent positive displays when he was required to make eight saves during United's 3-0 win over rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford yesterday afternoon.

Although his compatriot is in "top form", Mata has urged his teammates to ensure that De Gea is not needed to bail them out during their upcoming encounters.

"We won, among other things, thanks to the Man of the Match David de Gea, who has had yet another great performance. He is in top form," Mata, who scored United's second goal against Liverpool, wrote on his blog page.

"Everybody's praising him and now we have to keep working so we don't need so many saves from him in the next few games - we have to get better in that regard. David gives us complete confidence. Liverpool created chances and they didn't score because of him."

Next Saturday, United take on Aston Villa at Villa Park.