MATA’S VOW TO FANS

OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER has told his players he will not accept a repeat of last season’s shambles.

His Manchester United side finished sixth, 32 points behind champions Manchester City, to miss out on a Champions League spot.

Midfielder Juan Mata, who has just signed a new contract, said Solskjaer sat his players down when they returned for pre-season training and told them he expects more.

“We had a meeting on the first day in which the manager and the staff spoke about what they expect from us, what they expect from Manchester United players,” said Mata.

“That’s the right thing to do. We all have to know what we represent, we have to know the level people expect from us.

“Since then, they’re trying to help the players, trying to improve in the way they want us to play.

“I would like to say thank you to the fans, because last season was not easy for any of us or for them. We’ll try

from DAVID McDONNELL in Perth our best to make them proud. We know that we have to improve.”

There was a surprise when the 31-year-old signed a two-year contract extension, with the option for an extra year, given his age and the fact he is now a squad player rather than a starter.

But with Solskjaer bringing more young players into the United squad with new signings Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Daniel James, as well as academy graduates Tahith Chong, Mason Greenwood, Angel Gomes and James Garner, Mata’s experience is vital.

“Obviously, Ole has been a player and he knows that in a squad you need balance, a mix of young players and more experienced players,” added Mata.

United have been scared off of making a bid for Sean Longstaff by Newcastle’s £50m valuation of the midfielder.

United think that the 21-year-old, who signed a new deal in December until 2022, is only worth between £18m and £20m.