Sunderland are planning a move for Aston Villa left-back Kieran Richardson. Dave Kidd in the Daily Mirror reports that the Black Cats want the former-Manchester United defender to strengthen their ranks after a poor start to the season.

The 30-year-old was a Sunderland player between 2007 to 2012, before moving on to Fulham and most recently Aston Villa last summer. Richardson played 23 times for the Villans last season and will mostly be remembered for his straight red card for a late challenge on West Brom’s, Stephane Sessegnon.

The reported move will come as a welcome one for many Villa fans. Richardson, 30 was a scapegoat last season for a string of performances throughout the season that at one point saw him booed by the claret and blue faithful.

Kidd reports that Richardson has a year left to run on his current deal and would be available for £2-million. He featured heavily towards the back end of last season under Tim Sherwood even appearing in the FA Cup final against Arsenal.

He was also one of Paul Lambert’s last signings as manager.