Richard Shaw started his career as a youth player for Crystal Palace rising through the ranks. Before becoming part of the first team Shaw had a brief loan spell to Hull City. Whilst at Crystal Palace he made over 200 senior appearances before his 1million pound move to Coventry City in 1995. He made 350 appearances at Coventry on the 10 years he was there. He only scored 1 goal when he was there and that was after over 250 games.