03/08/2017 08:30, Report by Gemma Thompson

Juan Mata says the pace in Manchester United's front line is something he thrives off.

The Spain playmaker has the talent and know-how to be able to pick many a defence-splitting pass and with the signing of Romelu Lukaku adding further pace up front, Mata is excited about the prospect of United's goalscoring threat.

Mata was the Reds' match-winner on Wednesday night in Dublin as the Reds ran out 2-1 victors in the final game of Tour 2017, presented by Aon, and he says everyone is feeling positive after an excellent preparation period.

"It was a great pre-season," he told MUTV. "We had a few amazing weeks in the States playing some very good rivals and against Sampdoria it was difficult to beat this tough Italian team."

On the subject of attacking pace, Mata assessed: "That’s ideal for players like me as we try to look for passes for the quickest players.

"We all know how good Anthony [Martial] is when one-on-one with a defender, so I just tried to put myself in a good situation to finish. It was an important goal because we won."

Attentions now turn to next Tuesday's UEFA Super Cup match against Real Madrid and Mata is hoping for a change in fortunes after losing both of his appearances in the showpiece fixture so far.

"I’ve been lucky to have played in two [Super Cups] and unlucky to have lost two, so maybe it’ll be third time lucky," he added.

"Last season was a good season, now we have an opportunity this season to lift more [trophies]. Next week we have the chance to lift another one which is going to be difficult against a team like Real Madrid. Our minds are now focused on that."