Manchester City defender Micah Richards faces missing the first month of the season through injury – What does this mean for the club?
Micah Richards started last season as Manchester City’s first choice right-back, and ended it on the bench.
Nevertheless there is no doubting the versatile defender’s injury is a blow for the club, but it may just increase their need to play their next hand in the transfer market.
City don’t have many weak points, and their defence is one of their strengths. But if there is one area they need to improve it is adding depth in the area.
Kolo Toure’s best days are behind him, and Stefan Savic remains unproven. Joleon Lescott turned 30 last week, and City were exposed last season when Vincent Kompany was injured.
The club elected to bring Micah Richards into central defence when they faced Chelsea at home last season, such was their lack of faith in Savic.
City have a tough encounter in the second game of the season when they face Liverpool, and it is one of Liverpool’s defenders Daniel Agger who they have been heavily linked with.
So Richards injury while frustrating, may have come at a good time as it will apply pressure on City to sign a new defender. It will help Roberto Mancini plead his case with the City board to release the necessary funds to make such a signing.
Uruguayan defender Diego Godin, who plays for Atletico Madrid has also been suggested as a target. Manchester United have made their big move in signing Robin Van Persie, putting City on notice that they intend to push them all the way to fight for their crown this coming season.
The interesting aspect of City’s defensive set up this season is Roberto Mancini’s attempt at playing three at the back. This is a formation which could suit Micah Richards perfectly when he is fit, but whether City stick with it by the time he returns from injury is another matter. They may be likely to utilise it today against Southampton, but away at Anfield is another matter.
Richards featured for Great Britain at the Olympics, and will have a fight on his hands to regain his place from Pablo Zabaleta when he returns. There may just be a new face by then in defence too, and City will be better for it.
Will Micah Richards injury increase City’s desire to sign a new defender? Who do you want to see signed?
image: © Gene Hunt
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