Richardson: International Disrespect …
Sun: KIERAN RICHARDSON last night denied being the latest England Under-21 star to have a bust-up with Stuart Pearce.
The Manchester United winger, 22, stormed off down the tunnel after being subbed during the Euro Championship opener against the Czech Republic on Monday following an ineffective display.
Richardson barely acknowledged boss Psycho but claims he needed immediate treatment on a back injury — and that he has no problem with the England legend.
Pearce has already rowed with David Bentley and Gabriel Agbonlahor following their withdrawals from his squad.
But Richardson said: “I wouldn’t disrespect the manager like that. I went straight in to get treatment and get that out of the way.
“You want to play well all the time and sometimes when it doesn’t happen you are upset. I’m struggling at the moment with my back but, hopefully, I’ve got a couple of days of rest and I’ll be all right.”
Pearce’s boys need a win against Italy tomorrow night to get back into semi-final contention.
James Milner, who played against the Italians at Wembley in the 3-3 draw in March, said: “It will be a bit cooler in the second game with the later kick-off so we go in with confidence.
“The heat on Monday was different to what a lot of us are used to.
“We scored three goals against Italy last time.
“We can get goals against them — it’s just important keeping them out at the other end.”
