Nani and Dimitar Berbatov's transformation from Old Trafford outcasts to outstanding performers has given Manchester United the extra strength to oust Chelsea from the top.

The pair continued their upturn in form in yesterday's 3-0 victory against West Ham United as they played the star roles. Nani's breathtaking goal and delicate cross for Berbatov exhibited why Sir Alex Ferguson has backed them as the men to help bring the Premier League title back to the club.

Good days were few and far between for much of the last two seasons as boos, rather than cheers, greeted their every touch. Whether it was another wayward cross from the Portuguese or a lack of sweat on the Bulgarian's shirt, neither face fitted at the Theatre of Dreams.

With Chelsea's power and Arsenal's elegance still apparent, United needed to add extra firepower to their armoury this season to compete. After refusing to make a significant splash in the transfer market, this improvement had to come from in-house.

Responsibility made an ill fit on the duo before. Tasked with helping to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani barely conjured an assist before the New Year while Berbatov's performances paled in comparison to former team-mate Carlos Tevez's goalscoring antics at Manchester City.


Last term, Rooney netted 26 top flight goals. Berbatov almost fell behind even the input of own goals, with a lacklustre 12 strikes.


The lack of output certainly contributed to the crucial one-point deficit to the Blues in the final standings. Berbatov's insipid display during the end of season 0-0 draw with Blackburn Rovers as Wayne Rooney watched from the sidelines was particularly damning.

At Stamford Bridge, Salomon Kalou and the now outstanding Florent Malouda took the slack from Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba. Their contribution was essential for manager Carlo Ancelotti as he found men able to supplement his superstars.

Dedicated football fans have long memories, but the surge from Nani and Berbatov in the opening weeks should ensure United finally have the support cast to match Chelsea's.

Last year, United's lack of precision in the final third was painful to watch when Rooney wasn't at his best. Chances came at a premium, with few taken if the England international wasn't on the spot to finish them off.

The upturn began in the Community Shield victory against their foes. Chelsea were left in their wake, as Nani's pass set up Berbatov to put the icing on the cake in the 3-1 victory.

United's 'all-round' package was on show that day. While Chelsea have been at their mechanical best so far, United's mixture of flair and defence could yet topple them.

That exuberance was in evidence as Nani raced onto the ball and left the West Ham defence on the floor to fire past Robert Green. The following set-up for Berbatov's acrobatic show reel stealer was from the top drawer as well.

Berbatov and Nani must continue to blow hot to take the wind out of their west London rivals' sails.

Without them justifying their extravagant price tags, United went close. With them, they can come out on top next May.