MICAH RICHARDS TO REMAIN WITH VILLA

Aston Villa captain Micah Richards is set to remain with his club despite numerous links away from the club, reports say.


The defender was believed would exit the side during the window but would now remain beyond the winter window.

Steve Bruce still has him in his plans and he featured the player during the 2-2 draw with Preston North End on Matchday 18. Premier League side West Ham were willing to snap up the veteran. Hull City and Sunderland were also linked to the star last summer but the player decided to remain.

He struggled to get action time during former boss Roberto Di Matteo but seems to have hope with Bruce in charge, possibly why he decided to remain at the club.

Richards still has two years and half on his current deal and it seems the 28-year old hopes for a renewal with time. He only just recovered from a knee injury and would hope Bruce selects him for forthcoming games.

The player might grapple with being the central force in the team but he is expected to adjust with time as he is open to remaining with Villa. The backline is set to see more competition when Villa announce the addition of James Bree from Barnsley soon.

Villa remain focused on their dream of returning to top flight English football next season even as the future remains bleak with their current situation. The Championship has been very competitive and the wave of decent results churned out when Bruce first took over seem to be over but the club continues to dream.

With another year in the division things might go sour for Villa but for now they continue to push and Richards wants to be in the centre of the action.