Graeme Souness reacts to Juan Mata’s display in Man United v Arsenal

Graeme Souness heaped praise on Juan Mata after the Spanish playmaker scored Manchester United’s opener in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford.

The Spain international broke the deadlock in the 68th minute at Old Trafford when he drilled home a low shot to put Jose Mourinho’s men in front.

However, Arsenal earned a point from the game – perhaps undeservedly – when substitute Olivier Giroud headed in Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s cross.

Mata earned plenty of praise for his performance for United nonetheless.

And former Liverpool man Souness was full of praise for the Spaniard after the game.

Speaking on Sky Sports after the final whistle, Souness said: “He’s got a fabulous footballing brain.

“He sees a different picture to most, he’s ahead of people in his thinking.

“He’s not got great legs and he’s not aggressive, he’s not a sprinter. But what he has is anticipation and when he does get there, he’s got the technique to finish, as we saw today.”

Manchester United’s next game is a home clash against Feyenoord in the Europa League.

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The Red Devils then take on West Ham United in the Premier League at Old Trafford next Sunday afternoon as they look to get back to winning ways in the top flight under new boss Mourinho.