Manchester United’s defeat left ‘bad taste’, says Juan Mata

Manchester United forward Juan Mata has stressed the frustration within the camp is the same as that of the club’s fans after Saturday’s 1-0 home loss to Southampton.

Boos rang around Old Trafford following the final whistle of the Premier League contest as United boss Louis van Gaal endured what he later described as the worst reaction he has heard from supporters yet during his time in charge.

The Red Devils — frequently derided of late for playing in a dull, uninspiring way — had just one shot on target in a match that was settled by Charlie Austin’s late header. They are now five points off the top four in fifth place and have won only three of their last 13 matches in all competitions.