Pearce blasts Richards 'lies'

Stuart Pearce has branded talk of Micah Richards' departure as 'a blatant lie'.

Stuart Pearce has branded speculation that has suggested a deal has been agreed for the sale of Micah Richards as 'a blatant lie', with Chelsea known to be strong suitors of the Manchester City defender.

Reports have suggested the champions have made a £13 million offer for the powerful 18-year-old but his manager has claimed this is nonsense.

Pearce has always been adamant that he will not sanction the sale of a player he believes to be essential to the club's future, even going as far as to suggest he would have to question his own role if a transfer was agreed.

Richards played in a midfield role he is thought to favour at the weekend against Everton, due to a spate of injuries which have decimated City's ranks and Pearce has urged the England international to focus only on his football.

"There has been speculation that a deal has been done with another club," said Pearce. "That is blatant lie.

"The one thing I can say is Micah is fantastically happy at this club. I want to bring players in to add to the quality players we already have.

"The main thing is he doesn't let his head get turned by what they read in the papers. Sometimes that is difficult for an 18-year-old."