Tim Sherwood backs Micah Richards to earn England recall

Aston Villa head coach Tim Sherwood has claimed that Micah Richards can force his way back into the England squad.

Richards, who spent last season on loan at Fiorentina, joined Villa on a free transfer earlier in the summer and impressed while making his debut in Saturday's 1-0 victory over Bournemouth.

Despite not playing for his country since 2012, Sherwood is confident that the defender has the quality to catch the attention of England boss Roy Hodgson on his return to the Premier League.

"Yes, that is the aim - to bring him back," the Villa boss told reporters. "Keep him healthy and I am sure he will get back in the England squad.

"It is a great stage for him – no bigger than this one. He has been outstanding since he has been here which is why he has the armband on.

"He has a good aura about him and the boys look up to him."

Villa will look to build on their opening-day win when they host Manchester United on Friday night.