It's a Mata of belief for Juan

The fourth-place side now trail both Manchester clubs by 12 points after dropping two points with a draw against Swansea on Tuesday night.

However, with reigning champions Manchester United next on the bill at Stamford Bridge, Mata insists his side must take the opportunity to reduce their deficit.

Following only four wins in their last 10 outings the 23-year-old, who joined Chelsea last summer, believes that victory on Sunday could produce a much-needed morale boost.

"It's normal the manager isn't happy with the performances but we know we can still improve on the pitch," he said.

"You can never say anything is impossible in football. But at the moment the gap is too big between us and the Manchester clubs, too many points.

Morale

"We need to reduce the gap on Spurs but to do that we need to keep winning, just win, win and win.

"That's why the match with United is so important to us in terms of belief and morale. To beat the champions is very important and that's the challenge. We are all very focused on this game."

Despite being confident in Chelsea's ability Mata understands the threat their opponents will bring, having won 12 of their last 15 matches.

"I know Manchester United from my time at Valencia and it's a sensational squad," he added. "With players missing or not, we know it will be a hard match as both teams need the victory.

"Perhaps the danger is their midfield. Even if they miss Nani we must stop their forwards getting service.

Danger

"Villas-Boas says it is a question of mentality and we can develop a superior game."
Juan Mata Quotes of the week

"Scholes and Giggs are legends in football. It's a great challenge to play against them and something to remember."

But the Spain international is backing his manager to lead from the front while trusting compatriot Fernando Torres will be able to find goalscoring form once again.

"Villas-Boas says it is a question of mentality and we can develop a superior game," he said.

"We need to rediscover our best level because we're entering a very important time with the Champions League and Premier League.

"For a forward like Fernando Torres not to score is agony as he's such a great player.

"But he can end that at any time and Sunday could be the perfect day. I know Fernando believes in himself and that is important."