Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has insisted that the team will try to put in a good performance against Arsenal in Monday night's FA Cup tie.
United welcome the holders to Old Trafford for their quarter-final clash, with the hosts looking to claim silverware in Louis van Gaal's first season in charge.
Mata, who won the trophy with Chelsea in 2012, admits that he is looking forward to playing the Gunners.
"Facing an opponent like Arsenal in the last eight is a great opportunity to enjoy pure English football. And the fact that we play at Old Trafford gives us extra motivation and optimism. We will try to play our best football in front of our fans," the Spaniard wrote in his blog.
"This competition brings back some good memories - I was lucky enough to win it in my first year in England. I remember that game at Wembley very well, although I know there's still plenty of work to do for us before dreaming of a final.
"Arsenal are very good technically, and many of their attacking players are very fast. They are used to playing with an attractive and offensive style. I'm sure this is going to be a nice game to watch for those who love football."
United and Arsenal have both won the FA Cup on a record 11 occasions.
Steven Toplis
