Celtic calm on Petrov future

CELTIC chief executive Peter Lawwell has urged fans not to panic over protracted contract talks with Stilian Petrov.

Negotiations are underway to secure their prized midfielder, 26, on a new deal. But, with reports suggesting Newcastle are set to swoop for the Bulgaria captain, supporters fear they could lose one of their star players. But Lawwell has assured them that retaining Petrov is the club’s top priority.

“It’s very early in the discussions,” he said. “We started them 20 months early and there is no need for panic.

“We had one offer from Fulham but that was rejected. We know clubs will be looking but, equally, we know what we’ve got to work with and we will do all we can to keep Stilian.”