The manager believes that midfielder Micah Richards has the potential to follow in the footsteps of other Academy graduates like Shaun Wright-Phillips and Nedum Onuoha.

The eighteen year old, who made fifteen League and Cup appearances in the reserves, has already had experience of working with the first team squad.

“He is one that we have got our eye on. I have told him exactly what I have told all the young other players at this club,” revealed the City chief.

“Play well and we will see you and involve you with the first team at Carrington. He has worked with us quite a lot even though he is young.”

“He came to Aston Villa and other games with the first team for a bit of experience towards the end of last season.”

The former Academy player can fill a role in central defence or in midfield and it is that versatility that could help propel his career with the Blues.

“Micah is a versatile lad who can play in midfield or at centre half and it is in the latter position that he has impressed in the reserves.

“His spring to head a ball is fantastic and he looks as though he has a little more time on the ball and that is always a sign of a decent player.

“I will have a look at him in central midfield at some stage and judge where his future might lie but the great plus is that if you can play him in one or two positions like Shaun and Nedum it is a wonderful thing for a manager and gives options all round.

“Versatility in this day and age although not absolutely vital is a great thing to have because when a manager is looking at his bench in particular that’s what he is looking for.

“If a player can cover two or three positions and be top level at them all then it is a wonderful bonus for a manager and offers a great feeling of comfort.”