Stiliyan Petrov was a crowd favorite at Aston Villa whenever he played.
Now, his son is seeking to make an impact on the public stage by entering the world of politics.
Stiliyan Jr. is campaigning for a position on the Warwickshire County Council.
The son of the former Bulgarian international, who earned 105 caps, has been announced as Reform UK`s candidate for the Lapworth & West Kenilworth ward.
Reform UK states that he is "prepared to improve his local area by reducing unnecessary expenditure, decreasing council tax, and ensuring adequate funding for essential public services."
In a brief video shared on the right-wing party`s social media platforms, Petrov Jr., while showcasing his football skills, stated: "I decided to run for election because I believe it is time for the working class and the youth of this nation to have their voices heard.
"Everyone starts somewhere.
"When I began my electrical apprenticeship, I was completely new to the field.
"I couldn`t even explain how to wire a light. But with experience, you learn and grow.
"The journey won`t be easy; it will be challenging.
"However, you must be adaptable and make the best decisions in each situation.
"I believe this approach will be really beneficial for me."
Petrov Jr., who was pictured with party leader Nigel Farage, will learn if he has been elected as a councillor after the elections on May 1.
However, he emphasizes that he does not intend to spend his entire career in politics.
Petrov added: "I am not aiming to be a career politician. I want to assist the people in this area and, hopefully, the entire country one day, to bring about real change in this nation.
"Look around; both the current Labour government and the previous Conservative government have consistently misled us.
NOT STANDING STIL
"Empty promises and constant delays – I`ve had enough.
"It`s time to take on the challenge and implement meaningful change.
"I believe in practical politics, in lower taxes, safer communities, and infrastructure that benefits everyone, rather than roads filled with potholes causing punctures.
"We must stop this wasteful spending at both national and local levels.
"Reform UK represents ordinary people like myself who desire and will ensure change. I am Stiliyan Petrov, and I am Reform UK."
Petrov Sr., 45, moved to the UK in 1999 to play for Celtic, winning four league titles in his seven seasons there before joining Villa in 2006.
He was part of the Villa team that reached the 2010 League Cup final but had to retire in 2013 after being diagnosed with leukemia. He later played in Sunday league football alongside Jude Bellingham`s father.
