Berbatov takes aim at Ferguson

The Bulgarian striker last week joined Fulham in a deal worth a reported $7.75 million after falling out of favour at United.

The 31-year-old cost United $47 million in 2008 and was the Premier League's top scorer in 2010-11 but made just 12 league appearances last term.

The beginning of the end appeared to come when he was left out of the squad for the 2011 Champions League final against Barcelona.

Speaking at a press conference in Sofia, Berbatov told reporters: "I don't think I deserved such treatment at United - not playing in the last year.

"I went more than 10, probably 15, times to ask the coach if they need me.

"And every time I was told that I'm an important player and should not leave, but then again I was not in the team.

"Maybe I should've gone when he [Ferguson] left me out of the squad for the Champions League final.

"I know he's the boss, but he has lost, to some extent, my respect because of the way he treated me."

Berbatov found himself below Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck in the Old Trafford pecking order last season and the arrivals of Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa threatened his place further.

Berbatov felt he was the victim of a decision by Ferguson to play with a different style.

He said: "He tried to explain to me that the team will be using a more direct style, with more speed.

"But I've never been among the fastest players, I like to hold the ball, this is my style.

"I found it hard to accept his decision - I still have my dignity. I scored many goals, I won the league two times, and I was the league top scorer, so it's not bad.

"I'll have no problems playing against United as this already happened in my career. But there's no point to look back again.

"I said goodbye to the people who deserve it. I couldn't say goodbye to Ferguson."

Berbatov's move to Fulham was not without controversy as he angered Fiorentina by turning down the chance to join it before also snubbing Juventus.

Berbatov defended his position, saying: "I've never personally told them, 'Yes, I'll play for you'.

"It's not my problem that someone is disappointed. After all, I choose where to play and be happy."

Berbatov's agent Emil Danchev also revealed that Tottenham made a last-ditch attempt to re-sign its former player.

He said: "We were in touch with Tottenham at the last moment."