Ferguson to keep Berbatov
Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Manchester United are likely to
activate a clause in Dimitar Berbatov's contract that will keep him
at Old Trafford for another year.
Berbatov, a £30.75 million record signing from Spurs, has found
his appearances limited this season as both Javier Hernandez and
Daniel Welbeck have forced their way into Ferguson's plans on a
regular basis.
This has led to speculation Ferguson may look to unload the
30-year-old during the January transfer window, with Russian side
Anzhi looking to pounce. However, the United boss insists that will
not happen.
Instead it seems Ferguson is more likely to offer the additional
year, which United have the unilateral option to do.
''Dimitar is still in my thoughts,'' said Ferguson. ''I have
read some things but there is absolutely no reason for me to let
him go. He is an outstanding footballer and we will give the extra
year.
''It is unfortunate the form of Javier Hernandez over the last
year has been outstanding but he (Berbatov) plays a great role and
he trains well. He has no complaints. The boy is a great
professional and we are happy for him to be here.
''You need a good number of strikers in the modern day. If you
look back to 1999, we had four great strikers. They all played
their part. That is exactly what will happen today.''
