Premier League: Is Berba back to his best at Fulham?

Fulham's new 'star' man Dimitar Berbatov
After more rave reviews following Saturday's Wigan win, Romilly Evans addresses the riddle of Dimitar Berbatov
Talk to many a Man United fan and they'll say that Dimitar Berbatov has never done a hard day's work in his life. But to criticise the enigmatic Bulgarian on grounds of diligence is to miss the point. In fact, it's a bit like a judge at the Chelsea Flow Show marking a floral arrangement down for being a too static. It's a straightforward spot, but the pertinent question is to ask whether there's any creativity and imagination on display.
The same test should be applied to the supposedly shrinking violet of Berbatov's ability. He may not have the same workhorse ethic as Boxer, but he is possessed of other redeeming features which can make him the most exciting animal on the farm.
Sir Alex Ferguson certainly banked on that potential when made Berba the club's record signing at 30.75m four years ago. But having been initially dazzled by his technique and array of skills, Fergie began to believe the Bulgarian's star was descending. A Premier League Golden Boot (where he scored eight goals in two games) at the end of the 2010/11 campaign merely papered over the cracks of his manager's belief. Berbatov's failure to even make United's squad for the Champions League final at the end of that season was the tipping point for the player - and he began to make his feelings known. Five league starts was his reward for voicing that discontent.
Many exit strategies were pondered, but Berbatov's ultimate release finally came on deadline day after the Red Devils had secured the services of Robin van Persie. Fulham were the hopeful recipients, coughing up a paltry 5m for his services. The fragile flower was wanted again. And Berba was quick to shun his former club and embrace that love.
"I said goodbye to the people who deserve it but I couldn't say goodbye to Ferguson," admitted the striker. "I was the top scorer but then I was never in the team. At least I know Fulham need me." It's hard to cue the violins over multi-millionaire sportsmen but it genuinely appears that Berbatov has reached that stage in his career where it's all about being appreciated. Even new manager, Martin Jol, confirmed that the main question Berbatov asked before putting pen to paper was "will the fans want me?"
The response to that poser was a resounding "yes" after he started as the Fulham faithful want him to carry on by bagging a brace on his home debut, a 3-0 win over West Brom. Fellow players, of course, can prove more difficult to win over, especially when you're not known for your graft. But even there, the signs are that his teammates have already taken to him. "For Fulham to have a player like him is amazing," eulogised John Arne Riise. "He's settling in well and all the boys are pleased to have him in the team." Steve Sidwell, who added the third against the Baggies, went even further: "He's always so calm and collected. He brings the best out of everyone else."
Such composure and leadership was again in evidence at yesterday's 2-1 away win against Wigan. Berbatov didn't score but always looked a threat and controlled long spells of the game in the Wigan half, providing Hugo Rodallega with the deft delivery to grab the opener. This dynamic duo fuses real quality and pure pace and will prove instrumental if the Cottagers are to qualify for Europe this term (currently an inviting 10.2n/a to back for a Top Six).
As ever, though, consistency will decide his fate. Consistency both from himself and the players around him. Messrs Duff, Ruiz and Richardson must maintain the avenues with which to supply him, while Berba himself mustn't go missing if those channels break down. His sublime skills can rescue a team, his petulance will scupper it.
"I can do special things. I want to show the club that I appreciate them taking me on," declared the 31-year-old. "I now have a coach who trusts me." He's making all the right noises. But still sounds like a serial philanderer, thrilling in the pursuit of another beautiful woman. Once the chase is over, will he soon grow bored and heedless to her demands?
But perhaps it's unfair to doubt Berbatov's capacity to reinvent himself. After all, Madonna used to do it every week. So whether his form is something more sustained, or just another fleeting glimpse of a meteoric talent, we should enjoy the light show.