Juan Mata praises Manchester United fans following defeat at Everton

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has hailed the club's travelling supporters for the backing they gave the team against Everton on Sunday, despite their comprehensive defeat at Goodison Park.

United lost 3-0 to the Toffees, but Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal sent the players over to the fans after the final whistle to thank them for their vocal support throughout the match.

"We need to return all the support we get from our fans (in Goodison Park they were brilliant, once again) and we hope to do it this coming Saturday in Old Trafford against West Brom," Mata wrote in his blog.

"We all want to be in the Champions League next season and, in order to get there, we must go back to the right path with good performances and good results. We can't afford another game like this one."

United are fourth in the Premier League table with four games left to play.