Berbatov started last night's 3-1 defeat at Newcastle United on the bench and Jol was quick to deny the Bulgarian needed to be persuaded to make an appearance.

He said: "No. I have heard that, but that was rubbish.

"There was no problem at all. Berbatov knows exactly what the schedule is for the next couple of weeks.

"He was fine. He played when (Darren) Bent did not play for two weeks and he could train.

"I need him on Thursday (for the UEFA Cup clash with Getafe). He knows that and I don't know where this rubbish is coming from."