No big Richards deal with Chelsea, fumes Pearce

Man City 2 Everton 1

Richards is believed to be at the top of Jose Mourinho’s hit-list as the Chelsea manager looks to solve the champions’ much-publicised defensive problems. And Pearce woke to reports that Chelsea had lodged a £13 million bid for the 18-year-old, who during the draw with Holland in Amsterdam two months ago became the youngest defender to appear for England.

City’s officials denied the story immediately before yesterday’s 2-1 win over Everton at Eastlands, and Pearce was quick to follow up with an equally angry rejection.