Paul Merson is more than happy to pull his boots on for Stiliyan Petrov
Paul Merson today admitted he couldn't turn down Stiliyan Petrov request to play in his charity game because of his admiration for the Villa legend.
The former claret and blues midfield will turn out to raise money for the Stiliyan Petrov Foundation tomorrow.
A Petrov XI will play a Lions and Legends side at Boldmere with Alan Wright , Julian Joachim and Steve Staunton expected to feature.
Petrov was forced to retire last year after being diagnosed with acute leukaemia in 2012 but is now in remission. He appeared on Merson's Sky Sports' show the Fantasy Football Club in February and personally asked the ex-England star to play.
"You can't say no and you shouldn't say no," said Merson, who scored 19 goals in 145 appearances for Villa. "He is a great guy.After everything he's gone through he's so strong and we're playing for a good cause."
Kick-off is 2pm, at Church Lane in Sutton Coldfield and tickets are £4 for adults and £1 for children. Supporters can pay on the door but with 600 tickets sold are advised to arrive early.
For information please contact Stephen Rigby on 07791743767 or stephen@srelectricalprojects.co.uk
