Carrick hails 'special' Berbatov

Michael Carrick was delighted to see Dimitar Berbatov explode back into life on Saturday.

The Bulgarian stole the show in Manchester United's demolition of Blackburn, bagging five of the Red Devils' goals in a 7-1 win.

Those efforts were Berbatov's first since he netted a hat-trick against Liverpool on 19th September.

His goal drought had led some to question his future at Old Trafford, but he offered a breathtaking response to his critics against Rovers.

Carrick believes the mercurial frontman can now push on to bigger and better things this term, with his weekend performance showcasing just what a talent he can be.

"Dimitar's performance was great. His goals were of the highest order," said the England international.

"The one just after half-time when he played the one-twos is up there for the goal of the season. It was something special.

"We all know scoring five in a game doesn't happen very often, so I am really pleased for him.

"I am sure he will go on to score many more for us."

While Berbatov was filling his boots at Old Trafford, taking his tally for the season to 12, Wayne Rooney barely had a sniff of goal against Rovers.

Carrick, though, believes it is only a matter of time before he explodes into life once more, with it always going to take him time to find his feet again following a spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury.

"Wayne and Dimitar created problems all day long," he said. "Certainly, Wayne looked sharp, back to his old self.

"He is fit and hungry. It does makes it easier when you play in a team performance as good as that.

"But we know there is more to come from him and he will score big goals for us this season."