Petrov, who also played for Celtic, has been coaching and training at Villa but believes the club will need to appoint a new manager before he could be considered for a playing role.

He told Sky Sports News: "I've come to a level that I've now got a chance to go back to professional football. I've mentioned it to them, I've told them about my intention.

"If I am given an option to join them for pre-season it would be great but I think they have a big problem there at the moment. They don't have a manager, they have to make big decisions, especially for next season."

Petrov, who has been playing Sunday League football since his recovery, harbours hopes of returning to play for a team which will be in the Championship next season.

He added: "I think when they announce the manager and when the manager's assessed the situation maybe I can speak to him.

"Nothing is impossible. Going through a cancer treatment they give you not very good odds of survival. You never say never in life.

"I want to get fitter and I hope I can make it, it would be a great story. I know in my head I can make it and I believe in it."