Speaking ahead of his side’s English Premier League game against Stoke City on Saturday, new Manchester United signing Juan Mata says the Red Devils need to play their natural game if they want to win.

Mata joined United from Chelsea for £37.1 million and made his debut in midweek in their 2-0 win over Cardiff City.

It was a bruising encounter for Mata who appeared to be targeted, but still the Spanish international shown through and was a key figure in the victory.

Now going up against Stoke in his second match for the Red Devils, he is expecting another tough encounter, but is confident United can win.

“It has always been difficult to play against Stoke,” said Mata.

“They like to play long balls and are a physical team, but we just need to play our own game with the quality players we have.

“If you try to play quickly, you can get chances to score and put yourself in a good position.”

United seem to be a different prospect with Mata in the team and with the return of both Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney from injury, they could well run riot against a Stoke side that looks set for a relegation battle this season.

A win for United combined with other results going their way could see them move from seventh place up to fifth.