The City skipper was a clear winner of the award as voted for by members of the Official Supporters Club, with Vedran Corluka and Martin Petrov in second and third place respectively.
Speaking to MCFCTV.com, Richard said: “It’s a brilliant feeling and a great honour for me. I’m really proud that the fans have voted for me, and I want to say a big thank-you to them.”
The 28-year-old famously played every minute of last season’s league & cup campaign, and despite not quite matching that this term he is still well placed to judge who he thinks has stood out from the rest of the squad.
“The team’s improved an awful lot this season,” he continues. “Joe Hart has won the young player award and he has had a superb year. Martin and Vedran came in from at the start of the season and did very well, and Elano was the one who really stood out at the start of the season.
“I think everyone’s done well at different times throughout the season and could have had a shout at some time. The fans have enjoyed the type of football we have played in most of the games here this season, and there’s been a big improvement on last season.”
