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Villa captain Petrov in remission

Stiliyan Petrov was given a great reception by fans following his diagnosis © PA Photos

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Aston Villa have released a statement to confirm that club captain Stiliyan Petrov's leukaemia is in remission, just over four months on from the initial diagnosis.

Petrov, 33, missed the final weeks of the 2011-12 season as he underwent treatment for the condition and still faces a long fight ahead of him as he looks to fully recover.

But, the Midlands club was able to deliver the positive news that Bulgaria international Petrov is making good progress as his recovery continues.

A Villa statement read: "It is with great delight that the club can confirm on behalf of our long-standing captain, Stiliyan Petrov, that Stan's acute leukaemia is in remission. Stan would like to take this opportunity to express his deep gratitude to the medical staff who have looked after him so well since his condition was diagnosed just over four months ago.

"He also wishes to place on record again his profound sense of appreciation for the incredible outpouring of love and support he has received from Villa fans, his team-mates and colleagues at the club, as well as football fans and many more people around the world during this period. He and his family have been moved by the depth of feeling stirred in so many people and he has taken great strength from it, too.

"Stan's fight is not over. There will be further battles to overcome in the days, weeks and months ahead. But he would like to share with you this tremendous news now and, in time, deliver his own personal message to all of you. On Stan's behalf, the club would like to thank everybody for continuing to respect Stan's privacy and his family's throughout his ongoing battle against acute leukaemia and for those who have raised awareness of the condition. Stan remains very committed to this crusade going forward."

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