Stiliyan Petrov says his new role at Aston Villa can prolong his playing career as he eyes "a massive season" next term.
Petrov was known as an attacking midfielder who could score vital goals during his lengthy spell under O'Neill at Celtic.
But the Bulgaria international now operates in more of a holding role behind captain Gareth Barry and Nigel Reo-Coker in a middle three.
And Petrov has finally started to show the sort of form which persuaded O'Neill to make him his first major Villa signing at £6million in the summer of 2006.
Petrov said: "I spoke with Nigel Reo-Coker and said I could play for another 15 years in that role because you don't move much.
"I've been playing this position for all my international career, so it's not new to me, and it's good for me that things are going well."
playing well
Petrov never gave up hope of a first team recall when he was dropped from the starting line-up for a five-match spell after being substituted at half-time against Newcastle United in early February.
He said: "The last two or three weeks have been great - apart, of course, from the defeat against Wigan. But, when I wasn't playing and the manager left me out of the squad, I didn't give up.
"I'm a positive guy and I always look at myself. I don't blame anybody else. I'm the only one that can push myself forward and make things right.
"I got my chance again, the manager moved me into the middle and I started playing well again.
"You can ask everybody at the club but I've been coming here every morning happy, laughing and joking even when I wasn't playing.
"I hope the Villa fans will see more from me and I'm hoping it will be a massive season next year."
