Aston Villa set to win battle for Micah Richards
Tim Sherwood was closing in on his first signing as Villa boss last night, with Micah Richards set to reject Albion, Sunderland and a host of other clubs to join the FA Cup finalists.
The former Manchester City right-back, who spent last season on loan with Serie A club Fiorentina, is a free agent after leaving the Etihad Stadium.
Richards, 26, is a 13-time England international and won two league titles, the FA Cup and the League Cup with City, but last featured for Manuel Pellegrini's side in a home defeat to Wigan in March 2014.
Meanwhile, Villa captain Fabian Delph has urged Christian Benteke to follow his lead – but told Jack Grealish to let his heart decide his international future.
"I'll leave that to him," said Delph. "He's represented Ireland in the younger age groups but it's his decision. I won't be one to put pressure on him."
The Villa skipper is hopeful Benteke will follow his example and sign a new deal at Villa Park.
Delph put pen to paper on a new four-and-a-half year contract back in January.
"Of course I would love him to stay." said Delph.
