Berbatov ready to fight for Man Utd future

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov insists he is ready to fight for his Old Trafford future even if a new forward joins the Premier League club before next season.

Berbatov, who announced his decision to retire from international duty with Bulgaria on Thursday, has failed to live up to his 30 million pounds transfer fee since moving to United from Tottenham in August 2008.

The 29-year-old has been criticised by United fans for his perceived lack of effort and scored just 12 goals this season.

His poor performances when he stood in for the injured Wayne Rooney against Chelsea and Blackburn played a key role in United’s loss of the Premier League title

And now United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to sign a striker during the close-season, with Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema, Valencia’s David Villa and Chelsea’s Nicolas Anelka his three main targets.

Berbatov knows he is in danger of being forced out, but he has no intention of surrending his place in the squad without a fight.

“I’m sure United will buy a new striker – but I am there and that’s important,” he said.

“In my two years, things could have been better but they could have been worse, too. I have had my moments.

“I have won the title and the League Cup but people had great expectations for the money it cost to sign me. We do not know what will happen in the third year.

“I will try to fulfil my contract because where would I go after United? I have reached the top with them.

“I do not know about interest from other clubs and I have had no meetings.”