Stiliyan Petrov is back playing football and winning trophies after beating his battle with acute leukaemia.

The former Celtic and Aston Villa captain was diagnosed with the deadly blood cell disease in March 2012 which forced him into premature retirement in 2013.

Now, Petrov is back playing with Wychall Wanderers in the Central Warwickshire over-35 Premier Division One who just won the League/Cup double much to the delight of the Bulgarian midfielder.

"When I took ill people said I would never play again and I had to retire from the professional game even though I was just 33. It was the right thing for me to do," he told the Daily Mail.

"But it made me angry that my illness had forced me into this decision. I wanted to be the one who decided when I wasn't to kick a football again. So, to be back playing, enjoying the training and the games, the laugh with the boys in the changing-room has been brilliant.

"To then go and win the league and a Cup has been unbelievable. After everything me and my family have been through, in terms of football, this has been as sweet as it's felt. I'm feeling good and I'm very happy with life. It's nice to be smiling and seeing my wife and sons smiling.

"Many things have happened to us and we have been given wonderful treatment by some very special and talented people at different hospitals in London and Birmingham, but I also need to thank Paulina. She was always by my side and gave me strength and courage.

"The only thing was she changed my diet and I've had to take these horrible vegetable drinks! I've stuck to the diet. Well, almost. I maybe sneak a little piece of chocolate now and again. I think I will celebrate Wychall's success with some chocolate!"