Source: Daily_Mail
Micah Richards out of cup semi-final showdown for Manchester City
Manchester City defender Micah Richards has set up an oxygen tent at home in an attempt to speed up his recovery from a hamstring injury that looks set to keep him out of the FA Cup semi-final clash with Manchester United. [LNB]Richards, 22, sustained the injury on England Under 21 duty last week and is struggling to be fit for the tie on April 16 after a scan on his injured hamstring revealed a grade two tear.[LNB]The defender, who is expected to be out of action for between four and six weeks, said: 'It is not what I wanted to hear at all. I felt sick when I was told. I knew from experience when I did it that it felt like a bad one but I was hoping for the best.[LNB] Down and out: Richards picked up the knock while on Under 21 duty against Denmark[LNB]'All I can do now is concentrate on getting back as quickly as possible. I must admit I did think "why me?" for a while when I heard the news.[LNB]'Of all the games to miss, a Wembley date with United is the last one any player would choose.' [LNB]However he has since taken the step of having an oxygen chamber installed at his house in the hope that the extra treatment will pay dividends. [LNB]Club doctor Jamie Butler told the club's official website: 'Many world class athletes and sports teams use IHT (intermittent hypoxic training) to increase sport performance. [LNB]'Also studies on IHT to increase on red blood cell production. IHT is proven to increase sport performance and health. [LNB]'Hopefully it will mean Micah will be playing sooner than he otherwise would have done.'[LNB]City, meanwhile, are hoping fellow full-back Jerome Boateng will notneed knee surgery after he also picked up a serious injury oninternational duty.[LNB]Waiting game: City are also sweating on Boateng's fitness[LNB]Initial reports from the German camp suggested the 22-year-old would have to go under the knife but City are seeking a second opinion from the club's medical staff.[LNB]The double blow has left Roberto Mancini short of defenders for Sunday's clash against Sunderland at Eastlands, with Pablo Zabaleta still on compassionate leave in Argentina and Kolo Toure suspended, meaning youngsters Dedryck Boyata and Reece Wabara could come into contention.[LNB]A first Barclays Premier League appearance for centre-back Wabara would be the perfect way for the 19-year-old to celebrate his new contract.[LNB]The Academy graduate today penned a new three-year deal having featured in the first-team squad on a number of occasions in recent weeks.[LNB]Wabara said: 'I've been working really hard to improve all areas of my game so I'm delighted to have signed this new deal.[LNB]'It was a big relief to know one of the most ambitious - and soon to be biggest - clubs in the world wants me to be part of their future.[LNB]'I don't know whether I'll be involved against Sunderland or not yet so I just need to work hard and be prepared if and when I'm needed.'[LNB] Expect absolute chaos! Fergie blasts FA over decision to stage Manchester derby showdown at WembleyRichards' desperate measures to be fit for all-Manchester FA Cup semiBarry is captain for Ghana friendly... but he's lost his lead role All the latest Manchester City news, features and opinion All the latest Manchester United news, features and opinion[LNB] Explore more:People: Kolo Toure, Roberto Mancini Places: Argentina
