Richards determined to prove his worth to Capello after latest England snub
Published 09:33 07/11/11 By David Anderson
Micah Richards has vowed to overcome his latest England snub after admitting he was gutted to miss out.
Richards hoped he might finally make his first start under Fabio Capello on the back of his leading role in Manchester City’s surge to the top of the Premier League.
But Capello left him out of his squad for the friendlies against Spain and Sweden, prompting Richards to tweet: “Disappointment is an understatement!!”
The right-back made his Three Lions debut aged 17 in 2006 and remains determined to win back his place in the squad.
He tweeted: “Oh well, better luck next time! Roll the sleeves up and work harder!”
Richards, who skippered City to their 3-2 win at QPR on Saturday, is desperate for the chance to show Capello what he could do for England.
He has seen how Phil Jones and Chris Smalling have made the step up from the Under-21s and claims he would not let the England boss down.
“I’ve still not been given a start under this England manager, so I’ve not been able to show what I can do,” he said.
“I know my form has to be right for City before he can pick me, but if he gives me my chance I’m sure I can take it with both hands, just like I did before.
“Jones and Smalling have been doing well for Manchester United. If the manager wants to give them a chance, it’s up to him and there’s no point in me moaning about it.
“I know what I’ve got to do - keep working hard - and that’s what I’ll do.”
Meanwhile, Owen Hargreaves should be available after the international break following his calf problem.
The England midfielder has managed just two appearances for City and coach David Platt said: “He’s been training for the last week and he’ll use the international break to keep that going.”
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