Richards to seize Olympic opportunity
10 July 2012 02:00
Manchester City defender Micah Richards says it will be an honour to play for Great Britain at the London Olympic Games.
Richards was expected to make England's Euro 2012 squad but was overlooked by Roy Hodgson, who opted for Glen Johnson, with Phil Jones used as cover for the right-back position.
The 24-year-old was however called upon by Stuart Pearce as one of three overage players in the Under-23 British Olympic team.
Team GB will face Brazil and Sweden in two pre-Olympic friendly matches and Richards is keen to make his mark at London 2012.
"I didn't get picked in the (Euro 2012) team and once I wasn't picked in the squad this chance with GB came around and I wanted to go to the Games," he said.
"It is always an honour to represent your country. It's not just England, it's GB so it is something new.
"When Stuart Pearce rang me and asked if I wanted to be involved, I jumped at the chance.
"It might not ever happen again so it is going to be a fantastic experience and I am really looking forward to it."
The 24-year old defender is focused on helping Great Britain win the gold in the Games, and he believes the squad have the ability to make an impact at the tournament.
"We'll have to wait and see (whether we can get a gold), we're confident and I think we've got a good squad.
"There are a couple of boys that have never played together so there is that aspect but we're looking forward to it and will give 100 per cent."
