New Captain of Bulgaria National Football Team Named

FC Aston Villa midfielder, Stilyan Petrov, was dubbed the new captain of Bulgaria's national football team, following the resignation of Dimitar Berbatov. Photo by BGNES

Bulgarian footballer Stilyan Petrov, who is currently playing for FC Aston Villa, will be the new captain of the national team, announced the national football coach Stanimir Stoilov.

The Aston Villa midfielder was captain of the national football team till 2007 when he quit because of an alleged feud with the then national coach and Bulgarian-born football legend Hristo Stoichkov.

Later, Petrov returned to the national team but has persistently refused to communicate with the media. According to the national football coach his reluctance to give interviews may be a setback.

“The entire Bulgarian national football team should be in contact with their fans. And it is the captain's responsibility to talk to the media and let them know what's happening in the team. I will talk to Stilyan and try to change his attitude to giving interviews. However, at present Stilyan is the new captain, because we have judged him on his merit,” said Stoilov on Monday.

Petrov himself has officially announced his resignation from the national team after the 2010 World Cup Football Qualifications.

“No other national team footballer has expressed a desire to quit the team,” commented Stoilov. “Stilyan told me he would resign after the qualifications. That's his personal decision and he's entitled to it. However, I must say that all good Bulgarian footballers have an obligation to these kids who look up to them and want to be like them.”

Petrov will replace as captain of the national team Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov who announced last Thursday his decision to quit the national team.

According to numerous speculations, Berbatov is withdrawing over harsh and persistent media attacks and non-stop criticism of his performance with the national team, however, he said Tuesday he is not at all upset and criticism is not the reason behind his decision.

The Manchester United striker announced Monday his plans for top management post once he returns to Bulgaria.

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