Stockport County secures loan of Aston Villa forward Rico Richards
Rico Richards Credit: None
Stockport County have successfully signed Aston Villa forward Rico Richards on loan for the remainder of the campaign.
The 20-year-old forward, in his first-ever loan spell, has already started training with the team and is set to be available for the upcoming game against Notts County in League Two.
Richards, who can play in various positions along the forward line, has been making a strong impression at Villa Park since his move from West Bromwich Albion last summer.
Starting his career at West Brom at the age of seven, Richards has progressed through the ranks, debuting for the first team in a Carabao Cup tie against Arsenal in 2021 and later making his league debut as a substitute in a Championship game against Hull City.
Dave Challinor, Stockport County's First-Team Manager, expressed his enthusiasm about the new signing.
“I’m delighted to welcome Rico to the club... It’s Rico’s first loan but he is highly thought of and has the ball carrying ability that we don’t currently have in the squad at present. We are really confident that he will impact our squad and get you, the supporters, off your seats.”
Simon Wilson, Director of Football, also commented on Richards' potential.
“Rico is a creative, attacking player with an eye for a goal. He has performed very well in U21s football and in the EFL Trophy games... In our conversations so far he seems hungry to take his next step and we are excited to see how he transitions into senior football.”
