Fulham manager Rene Meulensteen has stated that want away Bulgarian centre forward Dimitar Berbatov now wants to stay at Fulham, and is now fully commited to the London side, after sparking a transfer rumour last week.
Berbatov’s agent said that his client wasn’t happy at Fulham and wanted to leave the club, but manager Meulensteen has squashed those rumours surrounding the veteran Bulgarian striker.
Berbatov starred in Fulham’s 2-0 home victory against Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon, as the former Manchester United man confidentely scored a penalty with a swagger as Fulham sealed their first victory for seven games.
Berbatov also set up Steven Sidwell for Fulham’s second goal as the Craven Cottage club have moved up to 18th in the Premier League table, level on points with London rivals West Ham United.
Berbatov was previously linked with Barcelona, Juventus and several German sides, but Meulensteen’s news will be greatly recieved by Fulham supporters.
“He makes a difference,” said Meulensteen. “I thought he was excellent on Wednesday as well, and against Villa again you saw what he was capable of doing,”
Asked about Berbatov’s likely prospects once the January transfer window opens, the Fulham boss added: “I can’t, couldn’t, wouldn’t and don’t want to answer that, it’s my decision to do that with the people who are relevant to discuss these things.”
Fulham are 18th and still in the relegation zone after beating Villa but are now level on points with West Ham, who are one place above them.
Meulensteen’s side face Everton and Manchester City in their next two games before playing Norwich and Hull.
“I couldn’t have asked for more [from my players against Villa],” said Meulensteen.
“I asked the lads to build on the performance of last Wednesday and we got what we deserved against Villa.
“No matter where you are every point is important. We needed to re-establish confidence back in the team and there is no better way to do that than a win.
“I told the lads it is hard work and sheer commitment that we are going to need to turn it around and to use this win as a platform for the games coming up.”
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1
