Adebayor is buzzing again, warns Richards

MICAH RICHARDS has admitted Emmanuel Adebayor could not be in any better state of mind heading into tomorrow’s showdown with Arsenal.

Richards revealed the Manchester City forward has been walking around with his chin on the floor for the last few weeks, having failed to secure a place in Roberto Mancini’s first choice line-up and also been unable to score his first goals of the season.

All that has changed in a matter of days.

First Mancini placed his faith in Adebayor for last weekend’s trip to Blackpool, where he partnered skipper Carlos Tevez.

Then, on Thursday night against Lech Poznan, the Togo striker scored a hat-trick in the 3-1 victory which should prove pivotal in easing City into the knockout stages of the Europa League, and priceless in terms of lifting the 26-year-old’s confidence.

“Emmanuel has been quite down for the last couple of weeks but he is buzzing now,” said Richards.

“He has been hoping for a goal. With a hat-trick he should soon be flying again.

“I can understand his frustration. He is a quality player and when you don’t get in the first XI it is frustrating.

“But we have a dressing room full of international stars, so when a chance comes along, you need to take it.”

Adebayor could not have picked a better time.

Few will need reminding of his appearance in the corresponding fixture against the Gunners last season.

Adebayor scored, was subsequently fined £20,000 (€22,500) and given a suspended two-match ban for his goal celebration, and also had to miss three games for raking a boot down the side of Robin van Persie’s face in a stormy affair that City won 4-2.

But an Adebayor hell bent on enjoying more success at Arsene Wenger’s expense would be a major advantage as the Blues look to consolidate second spot.

“I am sure he will play some part,” said Richards.

“Even if he doesn’t start, I am sure he will come on.

“When he played last time it was his best game of the season. Hopefully he can do well for us again.”