Richards 'devastated' by Man City verdict - 'My integrity is being questioned'

Micah Richards says he ‘feel devastated’ after Manchester City were found to be in breach of the Premier League ’s financial rules.

Richards, 38, came through City’s academy and won the Premier League and FA Cup with the club during a 10-year senior career there. City are facing the prospect of severe penalties after the independent commission ruled they had "clearly intended to circumvent Premier League rules" across a nine-season spell.

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Potential punishments could include fines, transfer bans, points deductions or even expulsion from the top-flight. Enzo Maresca's side have appealed the commission's guilty verdict.

City return to Premier League action in a mouthwatering clash away at Liverpool on Sunday - and Richards believes the ruling could help bring the squad together, but admits to being left upset by it.

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He told Sky Sports: “In terms of Man City, it'll galvanise the players. We've all been in dressing rooms where there is outside noise, you all come together.

“I feel devastated, really, for the fans. Coming through the Man City academy all the way to the first-team, winning trophies, for all that to be in question now is very confusing.

“You've got two sides, one saying there's charges [of guilt], the other saying there is irrefutable evidence [of innocence]. It just leaves me [as a former player] and fans so devastated.

“I feel let down by the fact that it's dragged on for so long. Make it easier for the fans. Us as players, what we can do?

“I'd do anything for this club, but my integrity is being questioned. I'm in a difficult position. I’ve given everything for this club, I've literally got one knee… because of this club.”

City were found to have participated in an almost £1billion scheme designed to either artificially boost revenues or cut costs through a string of "sham" arrangements in a bid to sidestep league and UEFA financial regulations, according to the commission's findings.

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane said: “Some people think this is a bit strong, but I wouldn't feel like I've earned a league title if there was dodgy dealings going on in the background. Absolutely not.

“You just hope everyone is trying to do things the right way and on the same page. They [Man City] had unbelievable superstars in that team, but you hope there is honesty. That's where respect comes in.

“You want fairness on and off the pitch. The English game has always had that and [if proven] there has to be punishment.”

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