Micah Richards bids permanent farewell to Manchester City in Instagram post

Micah Richards has paid tribute to the Manchester City fans and players as he prepares to leave the North-West club for good.

The 26-year-old will be officially released by the former Premier League champions when his contract expires at the end of this month.

Richards spent last season on loan at Serie A club Fiorentina, but is reportedly close to agreeing a transfer to Aston Villa.

On Instagram, Richards wrote: "I just wanted to thank the Man City fans for the amazing support they've given me over the years.

"I joined City when I was 14 and have been part of a brilliant period in the club's history - winning our first league title in 44 years, winning the FA Cup, playing in the Champions League.

"The club, the manager, the staff who work behind the scenes, the players, but most importantly the fans - everyone - will always have a special place in my heart. City's been like a family to me and I wish everyone the best of luck for next season and the coming years."

Richards made 19 appearances in all competitions for Fiorentina in the 2014-15 campaign.