Defender confident of gaining regular starting spot.
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Manchester City defender Micah Richards has played down speculation that he could look to leave the club this January, telling BT Sport that he is confident of forcing his way into Manuel Pellegrini’s first-team plans.
The 25-year-old has been at the Manchester club for his entire career so far, but a recent run of bad luck with injuries has seen his future with the club come into doubt as he remains behind Pablo Zabaleta in the pecking order.
The Argentine has been one of City’s most impressive performers over the last couple of seasons, and although Richards has shown plenty of potential in his career so far, he is also known for struggling for consistency.
Italian side Roma had been linked with a move for him this January, as they look to strengthen their squad for a sustained challenge for the Serie A title, but Richards has now indicated that he would not be looking for a move away from the Etihad Stadium.
Despite making only two appearances so far this season, the versatile stopper believes Pellegrini has plans for him, and he sees no reason to force an exit to gain extra playing time.
“I did say at the start of the season I wanted to see the manager’s plans and I’m in his plans, as he’s said all along, so we’ll see what the future holds, but I’m happy at Manchester City,” he said.
“I’ve been here since I was 14, it’s a club I love.
“Before I got my injuries, I was number-one choice. It’s only because I got injuries and Pablo Zabaleta has done so well, I find myself not playing as regular. I’m fully fit now and I’m ready to show everyone what I can do.
“It was a big decision for the manager to play me in the Bayern Munich game after only playing one game previously in the cup against Wigan so it shows massive confidence in me.”