Source: SKY_Sports
Petrov hoping for reinforcements
Aston Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov is hoping Martin O'Neill makes a few more signings before the summer transfer window closes.
The former Celtic ace believes with an expanded Europa League on the horizon it is important to have enough strength in depth.
O'Neill utilised the fewest number of players last season, a surprising statistic considering the number of games the Midlands outfit played.
Villa tackle Rapid Vienna in the qualifying play-offs on Thursday and the 30-year-old is concerned O'Neill's squad may not have enough depth to cope.
O'Neill has bagged Stewart Downing and Fabian Delph this summer, but Petrov has hinted more numbers are required to compete on all fronts.
"This season you will be playing double headers. Every team you will play twice in the group stages, like in the Champions League, so it will be more games," explained Petrov.
"That's why the manager is trying to make sure we have enough players to cope with this year in domestic cup games, Europe and the Premier League as well.
"Other teams in Europe have big squads and we must do that as well. I think before the window shuts we will have a few more signings. I hope so."
Meanwhile, O'Neill has confirmed full-back Luke Young is on 'compassionate leave' following the death of his half brother.
O'Neill knows the former Middlesbrough man needs time to cope with the loss in the family and is happy planning without him for now.
"I'll give Luke all the time he needs, obviously," said O'Neill.
"It's painful, devastating, sad and he's asked for a little bit of time and I've absolutely given it to him.
"This is his brother. I know it's his half brother but I think they were pretty close. It puts things into perspective.
"He came in the other day to do a little bit of work just to try and get his mind off things and I think it's devastating.
"It will take time. I don't think you can compare it to anything else. When he's ready to come we'll be delighted to see him."
