Aston Villa Boss Praises Petrov's Bravery

Aston Villa captain Stiliyan Petrov (right) with his family. Photo by EPA/BGNES

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has praised Stiliyan Petrov as the club captain continues his battle against acute leukaemia.

The 33-year-old Bulgarian, who is currently in remission, was diagnosed with the illness one year ago this week.

"I am always in contact with Stiliyan. He is doing great and I don't think anyone in this room can imagine what he has been going through, the way he has battled so strongly," Lambert told reporters.

"He is doing really well and hopefully it's not too long before he comes out of that stage he's at," he added.

According to British media, Paul Lambert is ready to offer Stiliyan Petrov a coaching role when the stricken star's contract expires this summer.

Football went into shock a year ago when the 33-year-old Bulgarian midfielder was diagnosed with acute leukaemia.

Petrov is now in remission, but is still undergoing chemotherapy.

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