Aston Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov has revealed that he is taking inspiration from Fabrice Muamba after being diagnosed with acute leukaemia.

Petrov is the second Premier League footballer to have experienced serious health problems in as many weeks after Muamba suffered a cardiac arrest during an FA Cup match against Tottenham Hotspur.

Now, Petrov is keen to draw inspiration from Muamba's recovery in an effort to make a similar comeback.

"I would like to thank all of the people who have left messages of support. The response has been overwhelming and I appreciate it very much. This is a difficult time for my family and myself and I ask people to respect my privacy," said the Bulgarian.

"With the help and love of my family, my teammates, all of my friends in football, Aston Villa and all of the fans, I am sure I will beat this illness and I am determined to do this.

"I saw the picture released yesterday by Fabrice Muamba, my fellow player, and it has inspired me as has all of the support in the past 24 hours."

Petrov's agent recently rubbished claims that he is planning to retire from football due to the illness.