Manchester United star Juan Mata makes heartwarming gesture for young fan at Under-12s training

The Spaniard gifted a shirt and joined in training after hearing the youngster's father passed away before Christmas

Juan Mata during Manchester United training (Man Utd via Getty Images)

Juan Mata is usually associated with his generosity and the Manchester United star lived up to that billing by making a young fan's day with a surprise visit to his training session.

The Spaniard heard about the youngster's father passing away before Christmas, which has left the Wythenshawe Town Under-12s player dealing with a tough few weeks.

So Mata made a visit this week to their training session and presented the kid with a signed shirt.

The United No 8 even joined in the kickabout for 45 minutes before posing for pictures with the kids.

After Mata's Common Goal initiative, where each player commits to donating one per cent of their wages to charity, the 30-year-old continues to do more.

Unfortunately for Mata though, his importance for United has diminished since Jose Mourinho's departure, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer preferring quicker, more dynamic players.

Mata will hope to be involved as United face Brighton on Saturday, having rebuilt their hopes of a top four finish.

United are six points off Chelsea in fourth and will face the Blues later in the season at Old Trafford.