Petrov eyes move to Premiership
Celtic midfielder Stilian Petrov has set his sights on a move to the Barclays Premiership for next season.
The Bulgaria international has refused to rule out the possibility of working with ex-Hoops boss Martin O’Neill, who has been linked with Newcastle, again.
The 26-year-old handed in an official transfer request this week and has previously attracted the interest of Everton and Fulham.
But the former CSKA Sofia man insists a move away from Celtic Park will be heart-breaking for him and his family.
Petrov told the Sunday Mail: “I made the decision a while ago.
“I want to test myself at a new level. I’m in a comfort zone. I want to see if I can step up a gear.
“This is not about trying to get more money – this is about my career.
“I hope the supporters understand.
“I need to find out what I’m capable of. I don’t want to be sitting 20 years from now full of regrets.”
He added: “I want to play in England. There has been interest in the past but I don’t know if any side will come in for me.
“I have no idea where I will end up. I have not been ‘tapped’.
“I keep in touch with Martin O’Neill and I’d like to work under him again.
“I hope things can be sorted out with Celtic. To ask to leave one of the biggest clubs in the world isn’t a decision you make without a lot of soul-searching.
“It was also difficult to tell Gordon Strachan. He doesn’t deserve it because he is a good man and a good coach.
“But I have to look after myself. I wanted to let him know and that gives him time to plan. He might also get some more money.
“If I’m sold, I hope Stephen Pearson gets in the team because he has great ability.
“I’d also like to see Celtic sign Paul Hartley. He would be a great asset.”
