Petrov is in theframefor Villa job
Stiliyan Petrov has emerged as a surprise contender for the Aston Villa manager’s job. The Villa legend is keen to break into coaching and management, and is understood to have applied for the position that is vacant after Steve Bruce’s sacking in midweek. The former Manchester United defender had been in charge for just a little under two years, but his side had won only one of their past nine Championship matches. Bruce had been under increasing pressure from Villa supporters, with one fan throwing a cabbage at him before last Tuesday’s game at home to Preston. Petrov was a hugely popular player during his seven years with Celtic, and moved to Villa in 2006 for £6.5m. He was former Hoops manager Martin O’Neill’s first signing for the Birmingham club. The Bulgarian midfielder made nearly 200 appearances for Villa before he was struck down by leukaemia. However, displaying all the qualities that marked him down as a player to be reckoned with, Petrov fought back and his condition is now in remission. He became a youth coach at Villa Park, and graduated to the first team when Tim Sherwood was manager of the club. However, Petrov faces some stiff competition for the role. Former Manchester United boss, David Moyes, is the bookies’ favourite but it remains to be seen if he’d be willing to work in the Championship. Thierry Henry is also in the frame, along with former England boss Sam Allardyce. But given his lack of managerial experience, the Frenchman’s link to the job has been blasted by another contender, former Republic of Ireland manager, Mick McCarthy. “Henry shouldn’t be the favourite in front of me, let me tell you that,” McCarthy scoffed. “No way. I’m sorry, but I’m blowing me own trumpet there. “Villa are a fabulous club, so, of course, I would like the job.”