Petrov hopes Barry will get warm Villa reception from fans

Stiliyan Petrov hopes Aston Villa supporters will give Gareth Barry a warm welcome when he returns to the club on Monday with his new team Manchester City.

The midfielder left Villa Park for Eastlands over the summer after 12 years of loyal service in the Midlands.

"Gareth deserves a good reception. The Villa fans should be very proud. Manchester City are building a good team, they want to compete at a high level, and they rate Gareth as one of the best midfielders in the country," said the Bulgarian.

"He gave so much to this club and I think the supporters should give him a very good welcome. Every time he came on the pitch he tried to make them happy and gave his best for them.

"He played over 400 games for Villa. I have a lot of respect for players who can do that. Not many players can do that. Only players who love a club can do that and that was Gareth with Villa.

"He is always texting about the club so he still cares. He played a long time here, he just can't forget it, and I hope they give him a warm welcome."

Petrov added: "Gareth went on a high. Not many players can achieve what he did for this club - and he stayed an extra year as well.

"They should welcome him, to show why he was loved all the years he was here."