No Bulgaria return for Berbatov – Matthaeus

New Bulgaria coach Lothar Matthaeus admitted yesterday he has failed in his bid to persuade Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov to come out of retirement to help his country qualify for Euro 2012.

“I have had several conversations with him, but he is not ready to play for Bulgaria again,” Matthaeus told German magazine Kicker.

“He gave me no reasons, but for me the issue is settled for Berbatov and other players can now take their chances.

“It’s like the Germany team before the 2010 World Cup – Ballack got injured so Ozil and Khedira took their chances and are now at Real Madrid.”

The 29-year-old United striker announced in May that he was ending his international career having scored 48 goals for his country.

Having been beaten 4-0 by England at Wembley last month and then 1-0 at home by minnows Montenegro, Bulgaria are currently bottom of Euro 2012 qualifying Group G and face Wales in Cardiff today week.

Bulgaria have not participated in the finals of a major tournament since Euro 2004.

Matthaeus, 49, will be in charge for the first time against the Welsh having taken over as coach last month.

After ending his stellar career as a footballer, the former midfielder coached a range of teams, including Partizan Belgrade, Hungary’s national team and Red Bull Salzburg.