England goalkeeper Joe Hart hopes Manchester City team-mate Micah Richards gets the nod at right-back against Bulgaria.
City keeper hoping team-mate gets England nod
England international keeper Joe Hart hopes Manchester City team-mate Micah Richards will get the nod at right-back against Bulgaria.
With regular right-back Glen Johnson missing through injury, coach Fabio Capello has a big decision to make over his replacement for the crucial Euro 2012 qualifier.
Richards burst onto the international scene after becoming the nation's youngest defender, although he dropped out of the picture prior to returning after three years last November against France.
The City defender is vying to start against Bulgaria along with the likes of Manchester United's Chris Smalling and even Phil Jagielka of Everton following an impressive start to the Premier League season.
Fan
If it were down to Hart then his City colleague would get the nod as he has been a huge fan of the defender for years.
"I am very biased because I am a massive Micah Richards fan and have been for years," the shot-stopper conceded.
"There were a few question marks the year before but last year he was outstanding. He is a real rock. A great player and a great athlete.
"We have been at City together for a long time now and he has been brilliant. I have my fingers crossed that he will get his chance."
Youth
The likes of Manchester United youngsters Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley are new to the England squad and Hart is pleased to see youth getting its chance.
The pair spent last season on loan with Sunderland and Wigan respectively and Hart believes it is beneficial for players to be playing regularly at club level.
"It is brilliant to have all these young players," he continued.
"Quite a few of the lads have been getting their opportunity at club level, which has obviously helped them to get in the England side.
"The boys who have been at the better clubs have realised that they need games and got themselves out on loan.
"Danny Welbeck did it. Tom Cleverley did it. It is good.
"Everyone is realising they need to play quality football and it doesn't really matter where they are. It only improves you as a player."
