Cancer Survivor Stiliyan Petrov Guides over-35 Sunday League Team to Cup Glory

Stiliyan Petrov captained Aston Villa in the Premier League, won a host of medals for Celtic and CSKA Sofia and played more than 100 games for Bulgaria. 

However, he has just accomplished what he feels is the greatest achievement of his footballing career: guiding Wychall Wanderers to a 6-0 win over Aston Manor in the Central Warwickshire Over-35s Premier Division One Cup Final.

The fact that Petrov is playing at all is the real story. 

Petrov was diagnosed with acute leukaemia just over three years ago while he was captain of Villa.

Chemotherapy and steroids kept Petrov alive and he no longer requires either. His latest bone marrow test was clear and he said winning this latest cup meant more than any other medal he earned during his career. 

He told the Mirror: 

"

It is more valuable than ­everything else – it is priceless. People may ask, ‘Why are you saying that?’ But I am satisfied.

After my treatment people told me I can’t play football again, but now I can kick a ball again – even at this level and win something like this. 

"

Petrov scored the opening goal in the final with his family among the 300 people in attendance.

"

It has been a difficult road, but having this trophy makes me smile again. I’m like a little kid winning his first cup.

My youngest son Kristiyan said: ‘That is the first trophy I have seen you lifting daddy.’ He was little when I was playing and making finals.

He couldn’t really understand, but now he is getting bigger and he does. He has seen me laughing again and smiling and I am really happy.

"

[Daily Mirror]