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Stiliyan Petrov has completed a remarkable recovery from cancer and will return to Aston Villa’s first team for pre-season.

The 36-year-old, who hasn't played since the 2011/12 season, will also take part in the club's training camp in Austria.

Petrov was diagnosed with acute leukaemia in March 2012 following a 3-0 defeat by Arsenal, but the former skipper has defied the odds and has a chance to be play again next season.

A club statement read: “Aston Villa Football Club is pleased to confirm Stiliyan Petrov will take part in pre-season training at first-team level.

(Image: Neville Williams) (Image: Reuters)

“Manager Roberto Di Matteo has revealed the former Club captain will travel with the group to Austria as he joins the squad at their training camp.

“Stan will report next week with the rest of the group.”

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Petrov set up the The Stiliyan Petrov Foundation during his time on the sidelines. His charity "seeks to develop a safer, more practical and effective process for treatment, relapses and prevention" of leukaemia and cancer.