O'Neill waits for Petrov to sign

23 April 2009 10:43
Martin O'Neill admits he would be 'delighted' if Stiliyan Petrov signed a new contract at Aston Villa.[LNB] The midfielder has established himself as a key figure in the Villa team this term, but only has one more season to run on his current deal.[LNB]Talks have been held regarding an extension and O'Neill is waiting for the Bulgarian's representatives to respond to the offer.[LNB]O'Neill is satisfied with the progress of the negotiations, but the Villa boss is eager to tie up Petrov's future.[LNB]Great character"If Stiliyan could commit himself to a new contract, I'd be delighted," said O'Neill.[LNB]"Contract talks are going pretty okay. Of course, nothing is ever okay until someone has actually signed on the dotted line. But we would like him to stay.[LNB]"We are waiting to hear back (from his advisors). The discussions have been going on very amicably. We would hope to be continuing those discussions very shortly."[LNB]He added: "It is only just a year ago that people were concerning themselves about whether Stiliyan had a future here.[LNB]"But he has battled back, so much so that I'd like him to be around here for the next couple of years.[LNB]"If every person shows the same determination and willingness and drive that Stiliyan has shown during the last year, it would be brilliant.[LNB]"He has shown consistency and self confidence. He had a lot to overcome and he has gone on to show he is the player I thought he was capable of being. He has shown great character."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports