Berba: I was told by United that they need me

Dimitar Berbatov is not going anywhere in January — except up the scoring charts.

The Manchester United striker last night confirmed he will be staying at Old Trafford despite starting only TWO Premier League games this season.

Manager Alex Ferguson yesterday revealed the Bulgarian hitman will be offered a one-year contract extension.

Berbatov himself insisted there was never any question of him moving — not even to his old club Bayer Leverkusen, who want him back.

He said: "There are always rumours about my future and some clubs are interested.

"But last summer I was told by United that they need me — and that was good enough for me.

"As a professional I want to play in every game so I need to exploit all chances so no one can doubt my work."

Berbatov, 30, was joint top scorer in the Premier League last term — level with Carlos Tevez on 21 goals. He had to wait until last week to grab his first league goal this season — and is now set on making up for lost time.

Injuries have thrust him back into the spotlight and he has five goals in his last four outings in all competitions — with four in two games including a Boxing Day hat-trick against Wigan.

Today he expects to face Blackburn — and last year he walloped FIVE past them. The Bulgaria star added: "That was a magical day I'll always remember because it is not easy to score five goals in the Premier League.

"During my career I have won many trophies and awards and have kept my hat-trick balls to remind me of those big days. It's a great sensation.

"But five goals. That's the kind of thing that only comes along once in your sporting life ... but I'll be trying again if picked against Blackburn.

"My worse moments are when I know the starting XI and I am not on the list.

"My objective in training is always clear — to give myself a chance of making the team.

"Obviously I want to play but it is very complicated in a squad as good as United's, especially in attack.

"But when I'm on the bench I am full of tension because at any moment the chance to play might arrive. I'm never relaxed.

"I think I have fulfilled my obligation with six goals this season set against the time I've actually spent on the field.

"But my challenge is to play, score goals and to help us get more victories."

Berbatov's great run of form has helped United draw level with neighbours City at the top.

He added: "People believed after our loss in the Manchester derby the title was over. But we've taken our chances since and now we are level.

"Blackburn are at the bottom but I can't see any comfortable games between now and the end of the season."