Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has said that Saturday's victory over Liverpool was "special".

Louis van Gaal's side beat the Merseysiders 3-1 at Old Trafford, with Daley Blind, Ander Herrera and new signing Anthony Martial grabbing the goals.

Mata has said that the victory has given the squad a boost ahead of facing PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League group stages on Tuesday.

"As you know, a win against Liverpool is always special. It was a good game, we tried to take the initiative from the beginning and, although we didn't create good chances in the first 45 minutes, we played almost all the time in Liverpool's half of the pitch," the Spaniard wrote in his blog on United's official website.

"I think it was one of those perfect days, and I hope we can enjoy many more in Old Trafford this season. I'm very happy for Anthony, it's a dream debut and I'm sure this is going to be the first goal of many.

"Looking ahead to Tuesday's Champions League tie, in the club, we're all very excited about this competition and we know how important a positive start would be. PSV is an historic team in European football, although they haven't participated in the group stage in the last few years."

United last played in the Champions League in the 2013-14 season.