Forward has displayed his talent since joining United but goals have not come as easily
Dimitar Berbatov has urged Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko to show more arrogance on the pitch. He believes the young forward must occasionally be “angry” and “demand the ball” if he is to be successful at Old Trafford.
Berbatov played for United as a striker under Sir Alex Ferguson. He scored 56 goals in 149 appearances across four seasons, from 2008 to 2012.
“Know your teammates – speak with them,” Berbatov said. “If you see that it’s not working out quick enough or soon enough as you like, speak with them.
“On the pitch, because [Sesko] is a big, strong lad. He can run. He can cover the space. He can hold the ball.
“The goals that I saw him score in his previous club were unbelievable. Left, right, shooting. So I think he has the quality.”
Sesko joined United in the summer as one of the most promising young talents in Europe. He has displayed that talent with his aerial presence, link-up play and movement so far for the Red Devils, but goals have not come as easily.
United supporters will be hoping he can improve on his return of two goals in nine league appearances, even if only five of them have been starts. Berbatov believes confidence can make a huge difference.
“Be confident in yourself,” he said. “Be arrogant in a way that you demand the ball from your teammates when you make the run.
“And when you make a good run, if the ball doesn’t come for you, say it or express it in a way that your teammates will understand that, ‘I am here. I’m making the run for you. Respect my run. Not every time but try to see me and believe in what I can do with that run.’
“Sometimes be angry. Scream, swear at him, whatever. It’s not personal. Just in a way that says, ‘I’m here, man. That’s why I’m here. Just give me the ball.’
“Be angry with your team-mates, not always polite and best friends and buddies. Be more angry. Demand more from each other.”
As a striker who played for the club when they were on par with the best teams in Europe, Berbatov knows it is all about goals for centre-forwards.
“In the end, it comes down to the goals for the strikers,” said Berbatov. “If they don’t score enough, people will be on them.”
