RICHARDS BEGINS TRAINING

Micah Richards has returned to training with Man City in a bid to be fit for Saturday’s FA Cup showdown with Manchester United.

City defender Richards, 22, was carried off with a hamstring injury for England U-21s against Denmark last month.

And he has not played for Roberto Mancini’s side since after missing two games.

His absence coincided with City losing 3-0 at Liverpool on Monday night when rookie Dedryck Boyata deputised at right-back.

But Richards has been back in training with City this week ahead of the weekend’s semi-final clash with United at Wembley.

UNITED INTERESTED IN RICHARDS

Manchester United are apparently interested in signing Micah Richard, who is unhappy at Manchester City.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is now being linked with a move for Micah Richard after reports from City claim that they are keen to bring in a new first team right back.

Manchester City have been heavily linked with Barcelona Right back Daniel Alvez to replace Richard in the squad.

RICHARDS NOT IN SQUAD

Manchester City defender Micah Richards has been forced to withdraw from the England Under-21 squad for this summer’s European Championship finals.

The powerful stopper has pulled out of manager Stuart Pearce’s party for the tournament in Denmark next month due to a hamstring injury.

Richards’ absence leaves Pearce with just 22 players at his disposal and the Young Lions boss will name a replacement shortly.

The 22-year-old was due to captain England and it means Pearce will have to appoint a new skipper.