Juan Mata can 'scrap' against teams like Bolton

The winger, who played alongside the Spain international at Valencia, has backed his compatriot to handle the physical side of the Premier League ahead of a trip to the Reebok. Valencia winger Pablo Hernandez believes his former team-mate Juan Mata will be able to handle the physical challenge of the Premier League.The Chelsea forward has made an impressive start to his Stamford Bridge career, featuring six times in all competitions so far and scoring twice.Mata faces Bolton at the Reebok Stadium on Sunday, and Hernandez expects the Spain star to cope with perhaps more aggressive opposition than he is used to.“Yes, he will be able to scrap," Hernandez said, according to The Daily Mirror. "He works very hard for the team, trying to create constant ­danger for opposing defences. He is always looking to help his team-mates all the time.“He has got so much quality that he would fit into any good side. He sees a lot of passes that other players don’t see and is also good at one-on-ones – going past people.“I’m sure he will keep on showing his quality.”Hernandez came face to face again with Mata in the Champions League draw between the two sides in midweek and was pleased to have the opportunity to play against his friend.He said: “Juan is a very bright player, very clever.“He is capable of scoring a lot of goals from midfield.“I still talk a lot to Mata on the phone. It was very special for him to return home.“He is not just a former team-mate but a great friend and we swapped shirts as we had always planned to do.”