Manchester United attacker Juan Mata has branded Neymar "a top-class player" after the Barcelona forward scored one of the goals of the season against Villarreal at the weekend.

Neymar, who opened the scoring in the La Liga clash, completed his brace late on with an audacious flick over the head of his marker, before finishing into the back of the net.

The Brazilian has drawn widespread praise for the goal and now Mata has had his say on the 23-year-old, who has netted 11 times in the league this term.

"On top of the table, Barcelona were successful in a complex game against Villarreal, a very competitive and talented side," Mata wrote in his blog. "Once again, Neymar showed how lethal he is. A top-class player. His second goal was a master stroke."

Mata, meanwhile, also scored at the weekend as Man United recorded a 2-0 win over West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.