Unhappy Dimitar Berbatov hints at Manchester United exit in search of regular football

The 31-year-old notes that he is 'not getting younger' and could seek first team opportunities elsewhere, though a clause in his expiring contract could complicate matters

Feb 8, 2012 11:39:00 AM

By George Ankers

More On :  Manchester United, Dimitar Berbatov
EPL,Dimitar Berbatov,Manchester United v Wigan Athletic
Getty Images

Dimitar Berbatov has hinted that he could leave Manchester United in the summer in search of regular football, admitting that he is "not happy" about his lack of playing time at Old Trafford.

The Bulgarian striker, whose current deal is set to expire in the summer, did, however, reveal that the club could trigger a clause in his contract to extend the agreement for another year.

“I am a Manchester United player, but I do not currently play in as many games as I want. I'm not happy that I do not play,” the 31-year-old told Bulgarian sports website sportal.bg.

“I am not getting younger, I must play, and I cannot be happy. I am still waiting for my chance. We will see what will happen until the end of the season.

“It is natural that my mood and confidence drop if I am not playing. I hope things change. I try to do my best when I am given the chance to play.

“As far as I know the clause is automatic and goes in effect in March - let's wait and see what happens in March.”

The former Tottenham hitman was keen to stress that he would seek to resolve the matter privately with manager Sir Alex Ferguson rather than kick up a fuss in public.

“I am not one to use the media to communicate with people,” he added.

“If I have something to say, I go and talk face to face with the manager. He decides everything.”

Berbatov has found himself falling behind the likes of Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck in the pecking order at Old Trafford, making only 10 Premier League appearances so far this season.

The forward also suggested that he might consider a return to international football for Bulgaria, having previously retired from playing for his country in May 2010.

“In order to return, I first have to be invited,” the striker observed. “I have not heard from anyone regarding this issue. I have not talked with Liybo Penev. I even could not congratulate him on his appointment as national coach.

“My phone is always on. If I receive an invitation, then I can discuss a return.”

Follow Goal.com on Twitter

Follow Goal.com on Facebook
 
play pause open close
Inside Goal.Com
  1. RIGG: Anelka struggling against the current in Shanghai RIGG: Anelka struggling against the current in Shanghai

    Nicolas Anelka went against the grain when he moved to Shanghai. Now he's finding that coaching and gelling tactically is like swimming against the tide.

  2. ROGERS: Bradley should command a bidding war among Serie A teams ROGERS: Bradley should command a bidding war among Serie A teams

    Chievo is currently shopping the American midfielder and several Italian clubs have shown interest.

  3. ISOLA: Neymar-led Brazil should be considered the 2014 WC favorite ISOLA: Neymar-led Brazil should be considered the 2014 WC favorite

    Neymar was brilliant as Brazil easily handled the United States with early World Cup preparations officially underway.

  4. LATHAM: Mexico using summer friendlies to build depth LATHAM: Mexico using summer friendlies to build depth

    With World Cup qualifying to begin in June, Mexico is using three U.S.-hosted friendlies to build squad depth.

  5. McCARTHY: Harrisburg springs its wildest Open Cup upset to date McCARTHY: Harrisburg springs its wildest Open Cup upset to date

    The City Islanders fought back from three goals down with nine minutes to play and won the game on penalty kicks in a stunning game on a wild night for the U.S. Open Cup.