Ferguson hails 'man of the match' Berbatov's role in win over Celtic

Berbatov has been in fine form this season (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has given his full backing to Dimitar Berbatov, describing the striker as a "class act". Berbatov was named man of the match on Saturday in the 3-1 victory against Celtic at Toronto's Rogers Centre in the opening game of United's five-match American tour. The Bulgarian opened the scoring and set up goals for Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley.

It was an impressive display by Berbatov, who has only 26 goals from 86 appearances to his credit since arriving from Tottenham in summer 2008. Ferguson said: "Berbatov got man of the match and I think he deserved that, no question. His performance was excellent.

"In the second half he produced some fantastic moments. It underlines the one great factor – the class he has. You cannot take that away from him... when we see a performance like that we know we have the right player."

Berbatov was partnered at the start by Mame Biram Diouf while, in addition to Welbeck, Federico Macheda was also given a run-out up front.

Ferguson knows he is spoiled for choice in that area especially with Javier Hernandez on board, Michael Owen to return from injury and Wayne Rooney on a post-World Cup holiday. "We are happy with the strikers we have got," he said. "You have to decide what is the best combination.

"Berbatov and Diouf in the first half did very well. Diouf has got different talents to Macheda and Welbeck. He penetrates, he is quick and aggressive. He is an interesting player and it suited Berbatov."

Ferguson called up a number of players, who are either in or around the first team, such as the Da Silva twins, Rafael and Fabio, Darron Gibson, Gabriel Obertan and Ritchie de Laet. He said: "We have strong belief in their abilities. We are good at bringing young players through, and I was pleased with most of them against Celtic."