Aston Villa: Stiliyan Petrov Diagnosed With Acute Leukaemia

Aston Villa captain Stiliyan Petrov has been diagnosed with acute leukaemia. Villa confirmed the news via a statement on the clubs official website. Acute leukemia is serious medical condition which relates to an initial diagnosis of leukemia (a cancer of blood cells). Treatment involves chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. It is not clear what the prognosis is for Stiliyan. The statement read:

"Stiliyan developed a fever following the Arsenal game last Saturday and subsequently underwent tests. Haematology experts confirmed the diagnosis today. "We expect to learn more about Stiliyan's situation in due course and we have moved quickly to support him and his family. During this time we ask that Stiliyan's privacy is placed ahead of all inquiries and trust that we will share information as we receive it. "Stiliyan is cherished by many and he will get from Villa every ounce of love and support that we have to help bring this to a positive conclusion."

Petrov, 32, joined Aston Villa from Scottish club Celtic in the summer 2006 for a fee thought to be in the region of £8 million. His debut came against West Ham shortly after his arrival in September. He was named Bulgarian Football of the Year in 2003, and has also claimed second place in 2000, 2001, 2005, 2009 and 2011. He has captained the club since taking over the arm band from Martin Laursen in 2009.