Former Manchester City star, Micah Lincoln Richards is expected to remain at Championship side, Aston Villa beyond the close of this month’s transfer window.

The defender was recalled to the match day 18 squad for the recent 2-2 draw with Preston North End and is still part of manager, Steve Bruce’s plans.

The 28-year-old signed a four year contract with Aston Villa after his release by Manchester City on free transfer in the 2015/2016 season and has gone on to be an integral part of the squad in the West Midlands.

The defender has attracted interest from a number of Premiership clubs as reports gathered claim that West Ham United are keen on signing Richards this summer, while Hull City and Sunderland, managed thenby Sam Allardyce, were also interested.

Richards has also had offers from a number of foreign clubs to consider but decided to stay at Villa Park despite not featuring too often under ex-boss, Roberto Di Matteo.

The England international is one of Villa’s highest earners and still has two-and-a-half years left on his deal. Heaving started in Bruce’s first game in charge, but then, he picked up a knee injury he has only been available for selection from last week.

It is unlikely that the player will force his way into the first team with competition from fellow players, but he is expected to stay at the club past the close of the transfer window.

Villa don’t play until Transfer Deadline Day against Brentford, this gives Bruce the chance to assemble the squad to his liking in the upcoming days as the club are on the verge of completing deals for Barnsley duo, Conor Hourihane and James Bree.the plan for a striker is also on his (Bruce) agenda.