Aston Villa have revealed that captain Stiliyan Petrov, who is fighting leukaemia, is in remission.

The club said: "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."