Richards: Give us just a little more time

Manchester City defender Micah Richards believes it could be years before the club realises its full potential under owners the Abu Dhabi United Group.

Expectation levels have gone through the roof since the company took over the reins last year.

City, however, have struggled to maintain consistency in the Barclays Premier League and their form, especially away from home, has been inconsistent.

However, they still have a chance of lifting a trophy and face joint Bundesliga leaders Hamburg in the UEFA Cup quarter-finals tonight.

Richards has come through the ranks at City and has added a dash of realism to the current situation.

He said: “There is pressure with the new owners coming in – people expect us to win every game.

“But we need room to build, maybe three or four years. That will be the time to judge us.”