Bulgarian international midfielder Stilian Petrov has rejected a new contract offer from Scottish champions Celtic and will leave the club when his current deal expires.
The 23-year-old former CSKA Sofia ace, who has been one of the club's most consistent performers under manager Martin O'Neill, is understood to have rejected a five-year deal.
"It is time to stand up for myself and I am not going back on this decision no matter what Celtic do," said Petrov.
"I respect the club's offer and if they think that is all I am worth, then it is up to them. They have a business to run, but I hope they accept my decision."
His current contract expires in 2005 and Petrov insisted he would still give his all for the team during that time.
"I have returned from a broken leg and played with a broken hand a couple of weeks ago against Blackburn so my commitment should never be in doubt," he added.
AFP
