Berbatov set 30-goal target, assured of long-term Man U future

LONDON - Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson has set Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov a 30-goal target and assured him a long-term future at the club.

Berbatov has only 18 months on his contract, leading to suggestions United might cash in on their 30.75 million pound record signing.

Ferguson, however, has been delighted with Berbatov’s prolific scoring this season, hinting United are set to reward him with a contract extension.

As a general policy, United do not award long-term deals to players over 30, but they are ready to make an exception given Berbatov’s excellent fitness levels and appearance record.

When asked if he was going to stay, the Daily Express quoted Ferguson, as saying: “Yes. He’s under contract. I don’t know how long he has got, but it is not an issue for us.”

Ferguson is convinced Berbatov can play at the top well into his thirties, like former United striker Teddy Sheringham, as he does not rely on pace but on speed of thought and skill.

Dimitar Berbatov has been prolific form this season, reaching the 20-goal mark. Ferguson expects him to match Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney by topping 30 this season. (ANI)