Remi Garde defends Villa skipper's axe
Aston Villa manager Remi Garde has defended his decision to axe skipper Micah Richards from his starting line-up in the defeat at Stoke City.
The Frenchman took many by surprise by making only one change to the side humiliated 6-0 at home by Liverpool in their previous outing.
The single omission being Richards who was replaced by Alan Hutton and Garde felt justified in his selection.
He said: "I have choices to make – sometimes, when I have enough players to do so. Micah has played some games.
"He hasn't played (on Saturday) but we have three games in a week and I have some players who cannot do so. Everybody will have his chance.
"But I think the way the team behaves (against Stoke) gives me reason not to make too many changes, because I think in terms of spirit the same players responded very well.
"I don't think I have too much choice, secondly."
The loss leaves Villa bottom of the table and still eight points from safety but Garde tried to remain upbeat, adding: "There are still 11 games to play.
"Results for our direct rivals were not bad for us. But I always say the same, I'm not looking at our rivals. There are still a lot of points to play for."
