Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has admitted that Sunday's defeat to Tottenham Hotspur was "painful" for the team.

Louis van Gaal's side took a hit in their campaign to finish in the top four as they recorded a 3-0 loss at White Hart Lane on Sunday.

United remain fifth in the Premier League table, four points behind Manchester City with six games left to play.

Mata has called on his teammates to move on quickly and switch focus to Wednesday's FA Cup quarter-final replay against West Ham United at Upton Park.

"It's not easy to write today, only a few hours after a tough defeat, a defeat that hurts and leaves a particularly bitter taste," Mata wrote in his weekly blog. "Conceding three goals in just seven minutes is tough to take for everyone, especially when you feel that you were doing a few good things before that moment.

"I think it's fair to say that during the first half the game was even. We had a good start and they pushed in the last few minutes before the break. However, the first goal was very painful for us and the opponent took advantage of it. I think it's good to play the next game as soon as possible, on Wednesday, because it allows the team to move on from White Hart Lane and focus completely on the match against West Ham.

"It's actually one of the most important games of the season and we can't afford to feel sad or upset when preparing for it. On the contrary, we must be aware that in Boleyn Ground we have a fantastic opportunity to make it to Wembley and give our fans what they deserve - a reason for joy this season."

Should United beat West Ham, they will face Everton in the semi-finals.