Publisher's Synopsis
Since signing for Celtic in the summer of 1999 for £2 million from CSKA Sofia, Stiliyan Petrov has established himself as one of the best footballers in Europe. The 26-year-old Bulgarian is now the Glasgow giant's longest-serving player and one of the fans' favourites. With a massive following, Petrov is also a superstar in his homeland, is captain of his country, leading them in Euro 2004, and is regarded as Bulgaria's finest player since Hristo Stoichkov. Now, for the first time, one of Celtic's most gifted players tells his life story so far in this revealing autobiography, co-written with acclaimed football writer Mark Guidi.
In his own words, Petrov opens his heart on his spartan upbringing in Bulgaria, retreads his first steps in domestic football and details the dramatic events that brought him to Celtic at the beginning of the 1999-2000 season. The man his friends call Stan takes us inside the dressing-room of the Hoops and tells us what he really thinks of the three managers he has worked under at Parkhead: John Barnes, Gordon Strachan and the gaffer who saved his career, Martin O'Neill. Petrov reveals why he once almost walked out on Celtic and reflects upon the night he broke his leg in 2001 - an incident which he feared would prematurely end his career. Instead, inspired by Celtic legend Henrik Larsson, he fought back to establish himself as one of Europe's finest talents. He also recounts his experiences with the club on the road to Seville in 2003, gives an intriguing insight into that incredible run to the UEFA Cup final and describes his favourite moments playing for Celtic.
