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Gabby Agbonlahor backs old pal Micah Richards to shine

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Gabriel Agbonlahor has backed Micah Richards to be a huge asset for Villa this season after the new boy was made captain for Tuesday's 2-0 friendly win at Swindon.

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With boss Tim Sherwood in search for a new skipper after Fabian Delph's departure to Manchester City, the 27-year-old centre-back was handed the armband for the club's first pre-season friendly on UK soil.

Richards joined Villa this summer after turning down the chance to remain with Manchester City along with offers from the likes of Inter Milan.

Agbonlahor believes his former England under-21 team-mate has all the attributes needed to have a big impact.

"I have been close with Micah for quite a number of years now," said the striker.

"He's got everything you need as a centre-half.

"I must admit, I'm not looking forward to playing him every week in training!

"He's got speed, strength, aggression, he's good in the air. He's an all-round centre-half.

"He's a great addition."

This season also promises to be a significant one for Agbonlahor, following Christian Benteke's departure to Liverpool.

The 28-year-old, who came through the ranks at Villa Park, has struggled for goals over the past two campaigns, finding the net on just ten occasions.

On Tuesday, meanwhile, the attentions were on the current under-21 striker Jerrell Sellars after he scored the second in Villa's win at the County Ground.

The 19-year-old was one of several young players introduced as second-half substitutes by Sherwood and grasped his chance, charging down a clearance from Swindon keeper Tyrell Belford before slotting home to double the lead earlier given to Villa by Scott Sinclair. For Sellars, it was a special moment.

"I can't even explain it," he said of the goal. "My first time with the first team, it is an amazing feeling. To get a goal, that is what I need to do.

"It's not one of my normal goals. As long as it goes in it's all good really.

"It's massive for my development, just to be involved.

"Even if I hadn't played it would still be a good thing and to get 30 minutes is really good for me.

"It was a great experience.

"I just want to kick on now through the season and hopefully get a sniff."