Both players have been at the heart of the Blues’ drive into third place in the Premier League, with Johnson scoring twice and Richards bagging the Barclays Player of the Month award for August.
Richards says, “I am not surprised Michael has been getting so much praise recently - his performances speak for themselves.
“Everyone can see Johnno is a class player and, with hard work in the next couple of years, he is capable of just about anything.
“He has been playing for England Under-21s but his aim has got to be the senior team.
“Obviously it is not going to be easy with the likes of Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Owen Hargreaves and Gareth Barry in his position.
“But he is still only young and, in time, I believe he will play in centre midfield for England.”
The contribution of midfield partner Didi Hamann has also not gone unnoticed, as Micah tells BBC Sport.
“It has definitely helped Johnno having Didi Hamann playing alongside him for City.
“I don’t think Didi has had enough credit this season. He has been one of our best players and he is very under-rated.
“He and Johnno are a good team. Obviously Didi has not got the legs that he used to have to get up and down - so that’s what Johnno does, while Didi just cleans things up.”
*Seasoncard holders making a purchase at the CityStore on Saturday will get a 15% discount, rather than the normal 10% off. The shop will be open from 9am until 5.30pm.
