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RICHARDS HAILS ROBINHO
Richards - impressed by Robinho.
Manchester City defender Micah Richards has hailed the work ethic as well as the skill of club record signing Robinho.
The Brazilian star, who arrived on transfer deadline day from Real Madrid, helped City overcome AC Omonia in a UEFA Cup first round first leg match in midweek after his debut ended in a defeat by Chelsea.
Richards said: "It is not just about his tricks. He has got a good work rate, he works for the team.
"He could have been a star who came here and cared about himself but he really cares about the team and wants us to do well."
City return to Premier League action on Sunda when they face fellow UEFA Cup contenders Portsmouth and Richards is excited about the future at Eastlands.
The proposed £210million takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group is expected to be completed soon and will give the club some exceptional muscle in the transfer market.
Richards, who graduated to the first team from the academy, said: "This is a great place to be at the moment. I've always said we are going to do something.
"Hopefully with the financial backing we are getting we can go out and win a trophy.
"Last season we got off to a good start but then faded. This time we want a good start and to carry it on right to the end."
Manager Mark Hughes could make changes as City also have a Carling Cup match at League One side Brighton on Wednesday.
However Robinho's fellow Brazilian Jo looks set to start after scoring his first goals for the club in the UEFA Cup tie. The £19million summer signing from CSKA Moscow got his reward for his perseverance after missing a number of good chances. Richards expects the 21-year-old to take confidence from getting off the mark.
He said: "Jo missed a bit of a sitter in the first half. His head could have gone but it didn't. He got his head up and scored two goals and good luck to him.
"He's off and running now and hopefully he can carry that forward to Sunday's game."
Michael Johnson could again miss out because of a groin injury while Martin Petrov is sidelined with a similar problem.
