Manchester City's Pablo Zabaleta backs Micah Richards for England place

Manchester City full-back Pablo Zabaleta believes that teammate Micah Richards has enough skill and quality to be a regular in the England squad.

The 24-year-old returned to action for the Premier League champions at the weekend following five months out with injury.

"I think Micah is a fantastic player and he deserves to be in the national team," said Zabaleta. "Micah came back to the team, he was very solid at the back.

"He is young, he is strong and he can give to England what he gives to Manchester City. Terry's not in the international team any more so maybe that is a good chance for him to get into the England team again."

Richards has just 13 international caps to his name.