Celtic losing 'world-class' quality if Petrov goes: Wilson

Celtic defender Mark Wilson claims the Hoops would be left with just one world-class player should Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill lure midfielder Stilian Petrov away.

The Bulgaria international handed in a written transfer request at the end of last season but Celtic boss Gordon Strachan is desperate to keep the 27-year-old.

O’Neill is expected to test the Celtic Park club’s resolve this week by making an official bid for the influential Petrov, who joined the Glasgow giants in 1999.

And Scotland Under-21 international Wilson has urged the former CSKA Sofia man to reconsider his desire to leave.

He said: “Stan is a fantastic player and is one of the two world-class players Celtic have. He has been fantastic for the club during the last seven or eight years.

“Stan has also been fantastic since the start of the season for us, despite the ongoing speculation. He has made it public that he wants to leave, but it just shows what the guy is like when he still gives 100% on the pitch.

“Personally, I would love him to stay and everyone associated with Celtic would love him to stay, but it is a decision only he can come to.”