Viv Anderson: 'Micah Richards made mistake'

Former England international Viv Anderson believes that Micah Richards made a massive error by refusing to go on the Euro 2012 standby list.

The Manchester City defender reportedly snubbed Roy Hodgson's offer as a back-up player as, unlike other players, he was not given reasons for his exclusion. However Richards would have been likely to be called upon by his country following an injury to Gary Cahill that ruled the Chelsea centre back out of the tournament, but instead Liverpool's Martin Kelly was given the nod.

Anderson is adamant that Richards should have swallowed his pride as he could now have been preparing for the European Championships.

"I would have taken Micah Richards but he refused to go on the standby list so we had no option really. We had to go with Kelly," Anderson told talkSPORT.

"I was surprised when he wasn't in the original squad because he can play several positions. He played centre-half for Man City at one stage and he can play as a holding midfield player so he can cover a few positions there.

"He had a really good season with Man City but didn't play the latter part. I understand [Michael] Carrick's frustrations [at not wanting to be on the standby list] more than his because he is still a young man. Carrick is 32-years-old and has a family. He doesn't want to be on the standby list.

"I think he should have swallowed his pride and wanted to play for England."

Anderson was the first ever black player to represent England and picked up 30 international caps.