Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards reacts to Premier League verdict on club's financial breaches

Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards expressed deep disappointment after the Premier League announced that the club had been found guilty of all financial rule breaches between the 2009-10 and 2017-18 seasons, and of most cooperation failures. An independent commission concluded that the club had used "sham contracts" with commercial partners to conceal more than £830 million in secret funding.

Richards, who was part of the 2011-12 title-winning squad, told the Rest is Football podcast that the wording of the report was troubling and that he felt devastated. He said he had been with the club since age 14 and that the allegations were painful for both former players and long-time supporters.

"I was at that club since I was 14 years old, I would die for that club. I achieved my dream at Manchester City, but then to hear these reports, and not only me as an ex-player, but the fans, what they have to go through, absolutely devastating," Richards said.

He added that a long-time supporter who had housed him during his youth called in tears, seeking answers he could not provide. Richards described the situation as heartbreaking for fans who have supported the club for decades.

"My digs man, he rang me and he was literally in tears and asking me about information, which I don't know. That's someone who's supported the club for 60-odd years and the uncertainty around it is just heartbreaking," he said.

Richards acknowledged the club's intention to appeal the verdict, which must be lodged by 2 October.

"To have a headline of this nature for a club that I love so much, it's been difficult. If you listen to the reports, they are damning. I feel saddened, I feel angry, I feel a little bit confused because, on the other side, you have City's side of the story," he said.