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Petrov diagnosed with acute leukaemia

Friday, March 30, 2012

Bulgaria captain Stiliyan Petrov has been diagnosed with acute leukaemia following a series of tests undertaken after the experienced midfielder developed a fever last weekend.

Stiliyan Petrov (right) is a regular fixture for Aston Villa
Stiliyan Petrov (right) is a regular fixture for Aston Villa ©Getty Images

Bulgaria and Aston Villa FC captain Stiliyan Petrov has been diagnosed with acute leukaemia, his Premier League employers announced on Friday.

Petrov, 32, developed a fever during Aston Villa's 3-0 defeat at Arsenal FC last weekend and subsequently underwent tests. "Haematology experts confirmed the diagnosis today," read a statement on Villa's website. "We expect to learn more about Stiliyan's situation in due course and we have moved quickly to support him and his family."

Petrov, who has missed just two Premier League games this season, made eight appearances during UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying. He earned his 100th cap for his country almost exactly a year ago, in a goalless qualifier against Switzerland in Sofia.

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