Aston Villa fans want to turn their team’s final match of the season into ‘Stiliyan Petrov day’.

Villa face fellow strugglers Wigan at the DW Stadium in the May 19 game and plan to pay tribute to their captain, who was diagnosed with acute leukaemia last March.

Fans are urged to wear Villa, Celtic or Bulgaria shirts to honor the midfielder, now in remission.

All season, supporters have applauded the Bulgarian in the 19th minute — a reference to his squad number — and the 3,000 travelling Villa fans plan to display banners bearing the words ‘Petrov 19’.

Earlier on Thursday Petrov, 33, announced officially his retirement from football as he continues his fight against acute leukaemia.

"It is with a heavy heart that I am announcing my retirement," he said.

"The emotions are overwhelming, but the continued support of family, friends and the great people I have come to know will make it easier for me to move on from the only life I've ever known."

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