Celtic Family’s support for Stiliyan Petrov

NEIL Lennon has spoken for the entire Celtic family in describing his absolute devastation regarding the terrible news that Stiliyan Petrov has been diagnosed with acute leukaemia.

The Celtic manager is a friend and former team-mate of the Bulgarian midfielder, as is Alan Thompson and Johan Mjallby. And they, like everyone else, have been left stunned by the news of Petrov’s illness.
 
Neil Lennon said: “We are all absolutely devastated to hear this news. As a member of the Celtic family, it is important for Stiliyan to know that he has our unequivocal support in battling against this disease.  

“Knowing Stiliyan as I do, and the many obstacles he has overcome in his life to get to the peak of his career, he will overcome this one too.

“On behalf of the players and the backroom staff we send our support and best wishes to Stiliyan, Paulina and the family. We are there for them all and they will never walk alone.”

Aston Villa today released a statement confirming that the 32-year-old midfielder, who is their club captain, has been diagnosed with acute leukaemia.

The statement said: “The Villa Board received news today that our long-standing captain Stiliyan Petrov has been diagnosed with acute leukaemia. Stiliyan developed a fever following the Arsenal game last Saturday and subsequently underwent tests conducted by Dr Ian McGuinness.

“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.”

Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell said: “This is terrible news and our support and prayers go to Stiliyan, Paulina and their family at this very difficult time.

“Stiliyan was an exceptional player for Celtic and helped to bring incredible success here during the seven years he spent at the club.

“He was also one of the most popular players here, not only within the club but with all our supporters and I know that they, too will want to pass on their support and best wishes to Stiliyan and his family.”

POSTED ON BEHALF OF : CELTIC FC.