Manchester City defender Richards targets February first-team return

The defender was ruled out for four months after tearing the meniscus in his right knee during the win over Swansea City in October, and is now eyeing the New Year for his recovery

Manchester City right-back Micah Richards is targeting a return to first-team action in February as he steps up his recovery from a knee injury.

The 24-year-old tore the meniscus in his right knee during City’s Premier League clash with Swansea City on October 27, and subsequently underwent surgery, which ruled him out for four months.

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Richards is cautious not to set an exact return date and admits it's frustrating for him to be on the sidelines rather than assisting his side’s title defence, but is hopeful of coming back stronger than ever.

"I am not putting a date on when I will be back because these things are never exact but I am hoping it will be in early February," he told the club’s official website.

"There is still not too much I can do but I am now on one crutch instead of two so that is progress.

"Of course it is frustrating and there is nothing more I would like than to be out there playing but I am being well looked after, the injury is responding and the knee getting stronger every day."