 | FACTFILE Born: 30/01/81 Club: Bayer Leverkusen Position: Striker Debut: 17/11/99 v Greece |
Bulgaria's hopes of progressing from Group C rely heavily on the form of target man Dimitar Berbatov, who netted five times during qualifying. Like Stilian Petrov, Berbatov made his name with CSKA Sofia, scoring 26 goals in 49 games to earn a move to Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen in 2001.
Though not always able to hold down a first-team place at the BayArena, the youngster contributed with some vital goals as Leverkusen narrowly missed out on the league title, German Cup and Champions League in 2002.
He has scored prolifically since making his Bulgaria debut aged 18 and is firmly established as coach Plamen Markov's preferred centre-forward.
An instinctive finisher inside the box, Berbatov's tall frame helps him hold the ball up with his back to goal.
When short of confidence he can appear a little clumsy and one-paced but a successful season with Leverkusen should ensure Berbatov is at his best in Portugal.
Did you know? Berbatov lists his hobbies as drawing and basketball.
MMIX
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