Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata claims he doesn’t see Henrikh Mkhitaryan as a direct rival and believes he can line-up alongside the Armenian under Jose Mourinho. Mata, 28, has been overlooked for the rejuvenated Mkhitaryan during the last fortnight. The Armenia international made just three appearances in his first three months at Old Trafford and Mata thrived both on the right wing and in attacking midfield role in Mkhitaryan’s absence.

Mata started against Crystal Palace on Wednesday night but will face a battle to retain his spot when Mkhitaryan returns from injury on Boxing Day for the side’s clash against Sunderland. Mkhitaryan has excelled in recent weeks. However, the Spaniard doesn’t necessarily believe Mkhitaryan will take his spot and says the two can play together for the Red Devils. ‘I do not think (my rival for the place is Mkhitaryan),’ Mata told the IBTimes.

‘We are different players and we can play together. Then it depends on each game as the manager decides what is best for the team. ‘But I think we are different players and I am happy for his recent performance because he is a great guy and deserves it.’