United to keep Berbatov, says Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed Manchester United forward Dimitar Berbatov will have his contract at the club extended.

Berbatov’s current deal expires at the end of the season and the Bulgarian had looked set to leave at the end of the season following a year spent mostly on the sidelines.

But Berbatov’s recent good form, including a hat-trick against Wigan, may have convinced his manager that he still has plenty to offer.

Ferguson told reporters: “We’ll be exercising it (the option to renew Berbatov’s contract). I think it kicks in in March.”

The manager also moved quickly to dismiss reports that Chris Smalling is suffering from glandular fever and could miss several months due to illness.

“I have seen the reports,” Sir Alex said. “They are well wide of the mark. He has tonsillitis.”

“He had glandular fever as a kid but that’s not the case here. He should be ready for the Newcastle game, at least definitely the Manchester City game in the FA Cup. He’ll be ready for those games.”

“We don’t have much changes. Obviously injuries to the defenders are quite a concern now, with Jonny Evans taken off at half-time (against Wigan).

“We’re hoping Phil Jones will be fit, there’s possibly an outside chance that Rio Ferdinand will get on the bench. Other than that, we’re the same.”

“Hopefully we can keep the momentum going. The form is good and the players are enjoying themselves too.”

United have suffered a defensive crisis recently with Michael Carrick and Patrice Evra paired at the back against Wigan on Boxing Day.