Berbatov to partner Rooney against Liverpool

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Dimitar Berbatov will start for Manchester United against Liverpool in Sunday's Premier League showdown.

Berbatov has gone some way to silencing his critics after scoring four goals in five appearances this season.

The £30million price tag following his arrival from Spurs two years ago has often weighed heavy on the Bulgarian.

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However, Ferguson believes his own faith in the striker is beginning to be recognised by those who have questioned him since moving to Old Trafford.

Berbatov, who has scored 30 goals in 91 appearances for the Red Devils, was rested against Rangers in the midweek Champions League encounter, but will be back to face Liverpool.

"He has a lot of admirers, particularly within this club," explained Ferguson. "When we buy a player for a lot of money there's more focus on them. When they have a bad game they get criticism other players might not get.

"Dimitar's had some marvellous games for us. I've told him he has to dismiss the press. I think he worried about that.

"But he's expressed himself this season very well, he's enjoying his football and he'll play on Sunday."