Cricket aces Ian Bell, Chris Woakes and Jonathan Trott are special guests on Villa's latest podcast as they lend their support to Stiliyan Petrov.

All three know what it's like to battle in the middle for a big score but they dismiss this as a walk in the park compared to the fight Stiliyan is currently enduring.

Bell, Woakes and Trott were on hand at Villa Park's Indoor Academy to sign the new 'Stan Wall', a dedicated area where fans can pen their signature to offer emotional assistance to the skipper.

And the terrific trio all chatted for the podcast about their admiration for the man known as Stan.

Bell says Petrov is a "special person" while Woakes insists he loves the captain's passion on the field. Both agree the support from the claret and blue family and beyond has been heart-warming.

Trott, a Tottenham fan, also speaks of his admiration for the Villa midfield warrior.

They are joined on topic by Barry Bannan and Ian Taylor.

Barry talks of the great courage shown by Petrov and how he's enjoyed texting and calling his football hero over the past few weeks to lend moral support.

Ian, meanwhile, talks of the many qualities of the skipper.

The podcast, hosted by Jack Woodward in communications HQ, also looks ahead to Norwich, alongside Ciaran Clark, Alex McLeish and Tony Morley.

Ciaran discusses his delight at excelling in midfield and how he hopes to help Villa end the season on a high at Carrow Road.

Alex praises the young lions, who have come through quickly this season and impressed.

Tony calls for an improved 2012-13 campaign, with Stephen Ireland pulling the strings in the middle ground.

The podcast makes it a sporting triple, with Lee Hendrie, Gordon Cowans and Willie Thorne interviewed at the Villa golf day, held at the Belfry's Brabazon course.

Lee tells us he's thoroughly enjoying playing with the Old Stars as he's still representing Villa - and bringing the average age down.

Gordon says he's looking forward to the 30th anniversary of European Cup triumph.

Willie talks of his delight at playing in the golf day alongside so many claret and blue stars past and present.