Bulgaria Star Berbatov Critical of Own Disappointing Performance

Dimitar Berbatov admits he still needs to keep a close eye on the ball this season. Photo by BGNES

Dimitar Berbatov admits he still needs to adapt in order to fit in at Manchester United, after failing to hit the heights expected of him in his first season at the club.

Following his EUR 33,6 M move from Tottenham last year, the 28-year-old Bulgarian scored just nine league goals last term and came in for some fierce criticism from the club's faithful supporters.

In an interview with The Irish Times, Berbatov admits that it is up to him to adapt to life at United. "That is my fault, not theirs. It is me who must change," he said of the supporters' complaints. "Manchester United are their club. They have treated me perfectly since I came. In my first year I was disappointed in myself. I need to say that."

Berbatov feels he has begun his second season in better fashion and has scored two league goals already.

"I am more pleased with my overall game in this second season already," he added. "I feel that I have integrated myself better into the team. I am much stronger, much fitter. But I still wish I could score more."

However, he admits his languid style has not always endeared him to the fans, and adds that he still feels his hefty price-tag was also a heavy burden to carry.

Despite these problems, he remains happy. "I am playing with legends like Scholes, Giggs and Rooney. Being coached by a man like Alex Ferguson. How can I not be happy?"

His next scheduled match appearance is on October 3, when Manchester United take on Sunderland in the Barclays Premier League.

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