Aston Villa have secured the services of former West Bromwich Albion starlet Rico Richards.
As confirmed by the club’s official website, a resurgent Aston Villa have secured the services of Rico Richards after West Bromwich Albion released him in the ongoing summer transfer window.
The 19-year-old came through the youth ranks at The Hawthorns, making two appearances for the senior side. Richards is primarily a central midfielder but can don several hats across the frontline and in midfield. This versatility could make him a utility man who can fit a variety of roles in the modern game.
Richards left West Brom earlier this summer after his contract expired and is currently in the Aston Villa youth ranks. A highly-rated player, he has previously represented England at both the Under-16 and Under-17 levels.
Aston Villa Academy Manager Mark Harrison is thrilled to have the 19-year-old on board and appears to have high expectations from the youngster. Hopefully now at a club that is showing ambition, Richards can work on getting his career back on track and fulfilling his potential.
The agreement with Villa is for two years, and the onus will be on the youngster to make the most of this opportunity. Expectations at a Premier League side will certainly be high and Richards will certainly need to up his game.
Under Unai Emery, the Villans are showing more ambition and are putting together a strong roster that can secure European qualification. While it is extremely unlikely that Richards will play a big role next season, he could very well catch the eye of Emery by putting up consistent numbers at the youth level.
He played a key role in West Brom’s run to the FA Youth Cup semi final in 2021 and will reunite with former manager Peter Gilbert at Villa Park. This familiarity could make his transition easier and make him feel more at home.
More and more youngsters are getting chances in today’s game and the Spanish manager isn’t averse to playing those who are deemed good enough. Time will tell whether the 19-year-old will make the cut.
