What a legend.
Stiliyan Petrov continues to inspire after today it was announced that he would be rejoining Aston Villa.
The Bulgarian, who just six weeks ago underwent his final bout of treatment after a three-year battle with Leukaemia, returns to his old stomping ground as part of Tim Sherwood’s team.
Petrov’s brave story continues to touch the footballing world. Only 14 months after he was diagnosed with cancer, he came back to Villa Park in a coaching role and, even though he had since retired from that role, he has returned again defiant as ever.
The 35-year-old has been a part of Villa since 2006 and has found the club and its supporters rally behind him throughout his fight.
And, now that he looks to be well down the road of recovery, the midlands outfit will welcome back their former central midfielder with open arms for not just his footballing knowledge and influence around the place, for his outstanding character.
Manager Tim Sherwood certainly shares those views as he impressed that Petrov will have a role to play.
“I think Stiliyan could add an awful lot to the football club. I would never bring him in just to be a mascot – I think he can contribute,” he said.
“He can contribute to the boys’ mindsets with what he’s done in the last few months in life. It’s been a tough time for him and going out and trying to win a football match is secondary to what Stiliyan has come through.
“He’s also a technical and gifted player and member of staff. We want him in here as quickly as possible to work with the first team.
“He knows the boys and he knows the group. He’s well respected. I always felt it was important you get enough players that know the fabric of the football club around.”
Welcome back, Stan.
PETROV RETURNS: Tim Sherwood confirms that @StanPetrov19 will return to Villa to work with the first team. #AVFC pic.twitter.com/umdG9fB9SR
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) March 5, 2015
