David Moyes certainly didn’t do too much to win over the fans at Old Trafford during his brief spell in charge, but bringing Juan Mata to Manchester United has definitely proved one of his finer moments.

Despite enduring a difficult start to his life at the club, the Spaniard has finally made a significant mark on the team, and after securing hero status thanks to a man of the match performance at Anfield, Mata has well and truly kick started his United career as he begins to pay back some of his £37m price tag.

Moyes’ marquee signing had struggled to hold down a regular first-team place since the arrival of new boss Louis van Gaal and it was difficult to see where he would fit into the side in order to get the best from his unquestionable ability.

But in the last two games since his reintroduction to the side, Mata has been employed in the wide right position and has been one of the stand out players in impressive victories over Tottenham and Liverpool.

Despite a standing ovation when leaving the field late on after a terrific display against Spurs, there were still question marks about his involvement in Sunday’s trip to Liverpool with some predicting Van Gaal would favour the pace and direct style of Angel Di Maria instead. However, the Dutchman stuck with Mata, and his decision was fully justified.

Two wonderful goals from the 26-year-old sent United onto a crucial victory over their rivals in a bid for a top-four spot. And in doing so he has surely cemented his place in the team for the rest of the season; a sure turning point in his Old Trafford career.

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The midfielder tormented Liverpool left-back Alberto Moreno all afternoon with his movement and forward runs from out wide. But his ability to press the ball effectively when out of possession was a notable plus point, and it proved an effective tactic from the visiting team.

His goals were taken superbly and oozed quality highlighting his notable talent that saw him flourish at Chelsea. He’s now scored 13 Premier League goals since his arrival in Manchester, a decent return considering an inconsistent run in the side.

He’s certainly a fans favourite, even more so now, and the praise he received from his squad members following his latest performance shows just how highly they regard him. His talent has never been doubted, it was just a case of confidence and finding a system that could suit him as well as the team. And it appears Van Gaal has now done that.

The confidence he will have gained from his latest performance will benefit him immensely and it will be no surprise to see him continue this kind of form until the end of the season. Having put down a significant marker for that wide-right position, everything is in place for him to kick on and become a significant member of Van Gaal’s starting eleven.

And having now found his feet at United the club look set to benefit greatly with one of the finest players in the Premier League at their disposal.

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