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Steve Bruce has told Micah Richards: Get yourself fit, I need you.

The former Villa captain has been sidelined with a knee injury this season but is now closing in on a return.

When he’s fully up to speed, Bruce will consider throwing him straight back in the team after admitting:

“I could do with him on the pitch.

“Micah Richards is a stick-on if he is fit.

“He has the right mentality.

poll loading Which formation should Steve Bruce go for? 0+ VOTES SO FAR 4-4-2 4-1-4-1 4-4-2 (diamond) Other

“Unfortunately fitness levels have been a big problem for him over the last couple of years.”

Richards can play right-back or centre-half and would bring experience, know-how and an added determination to drag Villa out of their current mess.

“He has been back in training for a week after an ongoing problem with his knee, a complicated one,” Bruce added.

“Certainly I could do with him.

“I have to say around the place he is terrific.

“He went on a six-week programme so hopefully he stays right because his experience could prove vital.”