Juan Mata hits out at Chelsea detractors after Man Utd wonder goal against Liverpool

Mata has come under scrutiny since his £37.1million transfer from Chelsea to United in January last year.

Blues boss Jose Mourinho once said of the 26-year-old: "Juan is a very good player and I look at him as a very good player, but I don't look at him as a special player because of certain circumstances."

He appeared to have defied Mourinho when he enjoyed an excellent finish to last season with five goals in four United games but failed to replicate those scoring figures in the new campaign.

Indeed, he has started just two of United's last nine games, sparking reports he may be sold in the summer transfer window.

But Mata believes his two goals at Anfield, including a stunning bicycle kick from the angle, will silence his doubters for good.

Writing on his blog, the Spaniard said: "Obviously I’m very happy for the team’s effort and performance, for such an important victory and for my goals.

"It has been an unforgettable day for me. As I have said several times before, I am the same player I have always been, with the same passion, the same abilities and the same hunger to get better.

"Hard work brings a reward, and that has been the case this Sunday."