Petrov says he wants to leave Celtic for England

SOFIA, May 30: Bulgaria captain Stilian Petrov says he wants to leave Celtic in search of a new challenge in England.

''I want to taste something new,'' the 26-year-old Petrov told Bulgarian radio Gong. ''I hope to move elsewhere because I did my level best at Celtic and I need a fresh challenge.'' ''I love English football and I want to play in England but I'll have to wait and see.'' The midfielder signed a new deal with Celtic in January committing him to the Scottish Premier League side until 2010.

Petrov, who joined Celtic from CSKA Sofia seven years ago, tabled a written transfer request in April but the Scottish champions rejected it.

''There's an interest from some English clubs but I don't want to reveal anything at the moment.

''But I'm not going to feel uneasy if I stay at Celtic,'' said Petrov. ''I'm a professional and I know I have four years remaining on my contract.

''They (Celtic) have great fans who make me feel at home.''

REUTERS