New Aston Villa captain Gabby Agbonlahor admits the players were shocked by the news of Stiliyan Petrov.
Petrov has been diagnosed with acute leukemia and this week started his treatment at a London hospital.
Agbonlahor told Absolute Radio: "Yeah, a massive shock, you know, for someone who's as healthy as Stan, it was very shocking, you know, but I think for Stan to come to the game, he showed bravery to come to the game. He knew he would have been asked a lot of questions and he come and showed what a big effect he is to the players and also a big captain he is, you know, and we're all ready for him to battle through this.
"Yes, it's hit the players hard. I think they showed great fight on Saturday for Stiliyan, you know, unfortunate not to get the result but I think with a bit more luck we will have, and we showed a great fight for him."
