LONDON: Former Aston Villa captain Stiliyan Petrov has returned to the sport with an English amateur team following his cancer battle.
Petrov, 35, was diagnosed with acute leukaemia in March 2012 before Villa confirmed in August that year that he was in remission. The ex-Celtic and Bulgaria midfielder announced his retirement from the professional game in May 2013, but he has recently made three appearances for Central Warwickshire League side Wychall Wanderers over-35s.
“It’s a good laugh and they’re competitive games,” Petrov told the Birmingham Mail yesterday.
“It’s just really nice to be out there playing a proper game.
“I’ve played 90 minutes and my fitness is improving but I need to be patient.
“I do get asked for autographs and pictures after matches. I meet a lot of Villa fans and it is great to chat to them.”
Villa fans often saluted Petrov’s fight to beat cancer by holding a minute’s applause in the 19th minute of matches, with the time a reference to the shirt number he wore for the club. And Petrov admits that support was welcome and encouraging in his successful recovery.
“The supporters have been great and I always had a positive attitude,” Petrov added.
“Everything is fine, touch wood. There are only three months to go on tablets and I’m finished. I’m on steroids until January.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been cleared of a serious head injury after being substituted during the 2-0 Premier League victory over Arsenal on Sunday.
The 22-year-old Belgian was forced off the pitch following an early clash with Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez and he was replaced by Petr Cech.
“Chelsea Football Club can confirm Thibaut Courtois went to hospital during our Premier League game against Arsenal yesterday for precautionary tests on a head injury. Those tests came back all clear,” Chelsea said in a statement on their website.
“Thibaut was treated for a minor cut to his ear and was released from hospital last night. He is expected to report for international duty later this week.” AFP
