Richards wishes England good luck

Manchester City’s Micah Richards has given his best wishes to England at Euro 2012 despite missing out on Roy Hodgson’s squad.

The 23-year-old appeared in last month’s friendly against the Netherlands at Wembley after being recalled by caretaker boss Stuart Pearce.

But with injury to fellow full-back Kyle Walker, the City defender had hoped to be picked.

Speaking to Manchester City’s official website, Richards said: “Of course my initial reaction is to be gutted but a manager is there to pick a squad and he cannot pick everyone.

“No one will be cheering louder than me for England when the championships start. My really good mates from City and other clubs will be playing and of course I want my country to win.”

After a gruelling season which saw Manchester City win their first Premier League title, Richards mentioned the deserved break he is now entitled to.

“I will take myself off on holiday and come back refreshed and ready to start again next season,” he concluded.

“There is so much to look forward to starting with City’s trip to China and Malaysia and then the Community Shield match against Chelsea.

“We are defending the Premier League title and we will be ready to be competitive in the Champions League.

“Hopefully I will play my share of those games and will be selected for the England squad at some time in the future.”