Juan Mata has apologised to Manchester United fans after the team's embarrassing 5-3 defeat to Leicester.

"After a whole week waiting for the match I could not imagine a Sunday like this," said the United forward after the loss left the Red Devils 12th in the Barclays Premier League after five matches. "The way back from Leicester to Manchester on the bus seemed really long.

"I keep thinking about how we lost a game that was under control.

"It's really tough to score three goals away and come back home with no points.

"On our way back to Manchester I was thinking about what had happened and felt so disappointed as all those that came with us to the stadium.

"Honestly, I feel very sorry that the weekend ended up for our fans in such a sad way."

Former United captain Gary Neville said the team looked "soft- centred" and ex-Holland striker Ruud Gullit criticised manager Louis van Gaal for spending the majority of his transfer budget on the likes of Radamel Falcao, Angel Di Maria and Ander Herrera when defensive reinforcements were needed more.

Mata, meanwhile, hopes United will be able to bounce back from the Leicester defeat by recording back to back wins over West Ham and Everton before the international break.

"There is time during the week to analyse what happened and learn from our mistakes so as not to make them again," Mata added.

"Now we will play two consecutive games at Old Trafford that we want to win for our fans. We will put in our best efforts, you can be sure of that.

"I hope to be in a better mood next Sunday."