Player review: Berbatov

Berba continued to polarise opinion in the stands during 2009/10, despite his undeniable contribution to United’s quest for silverware…

Story of the season: He has had his critics since he swapped White Hart Lane for Old Trafford, but there is no denying the valuable contribution Dimitar Berbatov has made to the United cause over the last two campaigns, both as a scorer and creator of goals. He began five of the opening 10 games alongside Wayne Rooney last season, but Sir Alex’s decision to deploy a 4-5-1 formation, spearheaded by Rooney, in United’s most important clashes ultimately led to the Bulgarian playing a reduced role as the season progressed. Nevertheless, when called upon, the striker proved he was more than capable of leading the line himself with his performances at Wolves and Bolton, and at home to Tottenham catching the eye. Indeed, United’s 4-0 victory at the Reebok included Berba’s first double for the club (on the back of a Man of the Match display against Fulham), while it was his marauding run down the left wing that led to the opening goal in the crucial win over his former club in April. He fired a couple of exquisite strikes during the season, with his scissor-kick against Sunderland and shot on the turn against Blackburn both shortlisted for United’s Goal of the Season.

Finest moment: Facing his former club in the penultimate home match, Berbatov soared in the sunshine and dazzled Spurs into conceding the first of two penalties converted by Ryan Giggs. His performance was of the creative kind that persuaded Sir Alex to part with all that cash. And showing a more physical side, Berbatov made up for the easy ride given to Chelsea’s Alex and Terry by dishing it out to Dawson and King.

What’s in store: Speculation about an ignominious summer exit for United’s record buy was rife at the business end of 2009/10. However, Sir Alex seems loathe to let the Bulgarian go; he remains appreciative of Dimitar’s capability for brilliance and the education his experience could bring to a burgeoning crop of young strikers at Old Trafford.

ManUtd.Com