Bulgaria’s Petrov Handed Aston Villa Academy Role

Aston Villa have confirmed recently retired Stiliyan Petrov will take up a new role as assistant to development coach Gordon Cowans at the club's academy.

The 33-year-old former Bulgaria international announced his retirement on 9 May, having battled successfully against acute leukaemia.

"I'm very excited and I wish to thank the club and manager for giving me the opportunity," Petrov said upon accepting his new role at the club.

"I will study for my coaching badges over the coming months and I am looking forward to working with Gordon Cowans, someone I know and respect, a true Villa legend."

"I'm delighted that Stiliyan will be assisting Gordon when the new season gets under way and, as much as he's offered this football club in a distinguished playing career, I know he'll have more still to offer in the years to come,” Villa manager Paul Lambert said, as cited by the BBC.

Villa's fans have shown their support for the Bulgarian midfielder, who joined the club from Celtic in 2006, by applauding during the 19th minute of their matches, in reference to his squad number.

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