16 Oct 2013

Richards could be next out of England

Submitted by isport

As the Premier League continues to import the best foreign talent football has to offer, an increasing number of home-grown players are looking to ply their trade abroad.

Michael Mancienne has rejected English football and is a regular at HSV, while Luke Moore is just one of many playing in Turkish football. Of course, Gareth Bale’s high-profile transfer to Real Madrid further highlighted how British players are searching for better things elsewhere.

The newest name on the list of British exports is Micah Richards, Manchester City’s out-of-favour defender who appears to have dropped off the international football radar.

Richards has been linked with a move to AS Roma this January as the Italian club look to bolster their squad and continue their stellar start to the season. Roma are top of Serie A having won their first seven league games and conceded just one goal. They are blessed with no European distractions and Rudi Garcia’s men have taken full control of their domestic front.

Yet if Roma are to maintain their title challenge – they are currently 7/2 to win on Bet365, for fans who enjoy a bet on football – they need strengthening at the back and the versatile Richards would be a great inclusion. Going a full season without injuries is rare, and so while the back-four look solid for now they will need a boost come January.

With Manchester City boss Manuel Pellgrini reshaping his team there is every likelihood Roma can get Richards at a bargain price this winter.

The Englishman has proved capable of playing centre-back, on the right and behind the midfield when required. He also doesn’t seem to mind waiting for his chance in the first team so would be a good reserve for Garcia to utilise when necessary.