Richards to hand Pellegrini timely boost as Man City defender returns from injury



Micah Richards is ready to ease Manchester City's defensive problems by returning to first-team action this weekend.



The 25-year-old has not played this season due to a hamstring injury, but he is set to make his comeback against Stoke this weekend after making a successful return to full training.



Richards has made pleasing progress since his return, but City will take a cautious view with regards to his availability on Saturday.



Spectator: Richards has been made to watch from the sidelines so far this season

In consultation with the club's medical team, manager Manuel Pellegrini will make a decision on Friday about whether Richards can make a playing comeback against Mark Hughes' side.



But the Etihad Stadium boss will be hoping for some positive news on the versatile defender as he sweats on his defensive options this weekend.



Pellegrini is facing an injury dilemma in central defence with captain Vincent Kompany unavailable due to a groin injury while new signing Martin Demichelis is out for six weeks with a knee injury.



If right-back Richards, who can also play centre-back, does not prove his fitness ahead of the weekend Barclays Premier League encounter, then he is almost certain to be included when City kick-off their Champions League campaign against Viktoria Plzen next Tuesday.