WE NEED A MIRACLE
But Berbatov’s hoping Bulgaria can end 57 years of heartache
BULGARIA have not beaten England in 10 attempts over 57 years – but Dimitar Berbatov is hoping for a miracle at Wembley today.
The former Tottenham, Manchester United and Fulham striker, who earned 78 caps for Bulgaria and scored 48 goals, believes the current crop can spring a Euro 2020 qualifying surprise against Gareth Southgate’s side.
Berbatov, below, said: “England are overwhelming favourites because they have world-class players, but miracles happen in football.
“This is a young Bulgarian team. It isn’t dominated by one outstanding player, like Hristo Stoichkov back in the day, or when I was in the team.
“But there is a very promising 22-year-old, Kiril Despodov, who won player of the year in Bulgaria last season and is now playing in Italy for Cagliari. Despodov could hurt England with his speed and tricks.
“What I like most about this Bulgarian team is their excellent spirit. In the past, England haven’t coped with the pressure of playing at Wembley, this Bulgarian team know that and will pounce on any mistakes. The key to our chances is concentration.
“I am a realist. Playing at Wembley is a big deal for our young squad. But the moment they set foot on the pitch, Bulgaria will forget about respect and go out to do their job. I would love for us to score. In my wildest dreams, I would like us to win it.” Skipper Ivelin Popov played when the teams last met at Wembley in 2010, with visitors losing 4-0.
And he has not only been there but also has the shirt – of the only Bulgarian to score at the national stadium. Georgi Asparuhov notched in a 1-1 draw in a 1968 clash in which Geoff Hurst scored for the home side. Popov said: “It is every player’s dream, everyone wants to score at Wembley. I bought the shirt at an auction.
“The difference between England now and England in 2010 is that then they were in the top 10 in the world. Now they are probably in the top two.”