Juan Mata wants to 'seize every opportunity' at Manchester United

The Spain international has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford

Juan Mata rescued Manchester United in the 1-0 win over Crystal Palace (Getty Images)

Juan Mata has signalled his desire to remain at Manchester United and fight for his place.

Despite having only joined the club in January, the £37.1m buy has been linked with an exit when the transfer window next opens. The speculation follows the arrival of numerous attacking talents over the summer, including Angel Di Maria, Radamel Falcao and Ander Herrera, leaving questions over Mata's role in the side.

The 26-year-old suffered from a similar situation at Chelsea and despite twice being named the club's player of the year, was sold to Manchester United.

Mata reminded Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal of his worth at the weekend when he came off the bench to score the only goal of the game in the 1-0 win over Crystal Palace. In his celebration, he pointed to the name on the back of his shirt in what appeared to be a clear message that he shouldn't be overlooked.

Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena Cope, Mata indicated his desire to fight for his place.

“What we have to do is what I did against Palace – seize every opportunity and to try to help the team," he said. "Luckily on Saturday my goal was worth three points.

Discussing his celebration he said: "It was an explosion of joy because the game was difficult, because we came away from several games without a victory and [the goal] was important. I’m very happy."

Manchester United's next game is against Arsenal.