FORMER Celtic midfielder Stiliyan Petrov is to resume first-team training with Aston Villa after more than four years away from football.
The 36-year-old has been out of the game since he was diagnosed with acute leukaemia in March 2012.
He announced his retirement in May 2013 while undergoing treatment, but turned out for his local Over-35s Sunday League team Wychall Wanderers.
A club statement read: "Aston Villa Football Club is pleased to confirm Stiliyan Petrov will take part in pre-season training at first-team level.
"Manager Roberto Di Matteo has revealed the former Club captain will travel with the group to Austria as he joins the squad at their training camp.
"Stan will report next week with the rest of the group."
Petrov moved to Celtic from CSKA Sofia in 1999 and enjoyed a hugely successful spell in Glasgow by winning ten trophies, including four league titles, with the Bhoys.
He has been at Aston Villa since 2006 and will train for a month on a non-contract basis for the club as they prepare for life in the Championship following relegation.
Petrov thanked fans for their support as he prepares for his return to playing at the top level.
"I'm so happy I've been given the opportunity to join Aston Villa 1st team for pre-season," he wrote on Twitter.
"I've put a lot of hard work to come to this stage. And the last hurdle will be even tougher but I'm physically and mentally prepared to jump over it!
"Thanks a lot for all your continuous support and I hope you all get behind the team whatever my outcome is! They need you more than ever."
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