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Determined Petrov vows to 'fight for my life'

The football world has rallied around Stiliyan Petrov © PA Photos

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Aston Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov has pledged to "fight for my life" after being diagnosed with acute leukaemia.

Petrov received the news from specialists on Friday, and has understandably called an indefinite end to his footballing activities as he focuses all his energies on fighting the illness.

"Football is over, this is the end," Petrov told Bulgarian newspaper Tema Sport. "I am now beginning to fight for my life and I will fight."

The 32-year-old recalled how he began suffering from a strange headache during the first half of Villa's 3-0 defeat to Arsenal last week, with the team doctor even suggesting he should be withdrawn at half-time. Tests later revealed he is suffering from the form of cancer.

"I lost my energy early in the second half and it was very unusual for me," he said. "But this is life, you see we drank a coffee in London a week ago and now we're talking about things like this.

"I'll fight, it's clear and I also would like to thank everyone for the support from all around the world.

"But of course, wishes from Bulgaria encourage me most. They give me strength to believe that one day I will recover."

Petrov attended Villa's home game against Chelsea on Saturday, where fans gave him a standing ovation in the 19th minute. Petrov wears the No. 19 shirt at the club.

He told the club's official website: "I would like to thank all of the people who have left messages of support - the response has been overwhelming and I appreciate it very much.

"This is a difficult time for my family and myself and I ask people to respect our privacy.

"With the help and love of my family, my team-mates, all of my friends in football, Aston Villa Football Club and all of the fans, I am sure I will beat this illness and I am determined to do this.

"I saw the picture released yesterday by Fabrice Muamba, my fellow player, and it has inspired me, as has all of the support in the past 24 hours.

"For me, football will have to take a back seat for a while, but I'm here to support my teammates today and I will continue to support them, as I know they will support me.

"Thank you to everybody."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.