PETROV DEAL MOVES A STEP CLOSER

Stillian Petrov, who last week delared his intention to remain at Celtic Park beyond his current contract, could be about to put pen to a new deal.

Martin O'neill has revealed that initial contract talks have begun already:

"I will sit down with Stilian's agent. We did have an opening conversation but it was nothing meaningful. However, we will certainly be speaking soon."

Petrov went through a bit of a lull in form mid season but he showed on Sunday against Rangers that his early season form has returned and Celtic will be very keen to tie up the 22 year old Bulgarian International Captain on a long term contract.