United to Replace Berbatov with Benzema?

Reports in the British press have claimed that Sir Alex Ferguson is losing patience with Dimitar Berbatov and is set to replace him with French star Karim Benzema.

Sir Alex couldn’t even find a place for Berbatov on the bench for Saturday’s game at Birmingham, and the Bulgarian international was also one of a number of players blamed for United’s shock FA Cup exit at the hands of Leeds.

The News of the World claim that “a source” told them: “Berbatov is a real puzzle and a problem. He’s so lacking in confidence that it’s almost as if he’s scared to go out and express himself. On the big occasions, somebody like Wayne Rooney grows in stature, but Berbatov hides away. He just seems to shrink. He should have everything it takes to succeed and Fergie certainly believed in him, but it’s just not working out.”

They go on to claim that United will cash in on Benzema’s lack of playing time at the Bernabeu by launching a summer bid for the French international.

In terms of appearances and goals, the two strikers rate fairly similarly this season; with Berbatov netting six times in 20 appearances for United, while Benzema has the same tally from 18 games at Real Madrid.

Sir Alex was rumoured to have been very interested in Benzema last summer but missed out on the former Lyon star to Real Madrid’s spending spree.

So, what do you think? Has Berbatov had his chance at Old Trafford? And if so, is Benzema the man to replace him or is there another striker out there?

By Harry Veal