Source: Daily_Mail
Brazil's Maicon inspires Kieran Richardson to embrace left-back role
Kieran Richardson has revealed watching the rampaging runs of Brazilian full-back Maicon during the World Cup convinced him that he could morph into a similar player. [LNB]The 25-year-old has been installed as Sunderland's premier left-back by manager Steve Bruce despite some initial reluctance from Richardson, who had favoured a central midfield role. [LNB]But after a summer of consultation with his father and the displays of Maicon, he is approaching his role with a new zeal which he hopes will see him gatecrash the England squad. [LNB] Rich in energy: Sunderland's Kieran Richardson (right) is enjoying his new life at left-back[LNB]He said: 'I played there a bit last season and it has taken me a bit of time to get my head around the position. I thought it was just a defensive role, but in the modern game, full-backs are just as attackingas anyone on the pitch. [LNB]'I watched the World Cup and saw the way guys like Maicon were bombing forward - and I thought "I can do that". [LNB]'Steve Bruce likes me playing there because I'm quick and in today's game, a lot of wingers are especially quick, so in that sense I can match them. [LNB]Samba King: Maicon is considered one of the best full-backs in the world[LNB]'I did need a bit of convincing by him, but I talked about it with and my Dad and I'm really enjoying it now. I'm learning the basics of defending, my positional sense has improved and I'm getter better in therole.'[LNB]Richardson memorably marked his England debut with a brace against the United States in 2005 - a goal with either foot - but has not made an appearance for his country since 2006. [LNB]The plethora of midfield players at the disposal of successive England managers has halted his international progress, but he feels that could change as Ashley Cole's understudy. [LNB]He added: 'Make no mistake Ashley Cole is great because he is so fit and he can get up and down that flank. [LNB]'Maicon is the same for Brazil - his fittest is excellent. As for England, Ash is the best but there is no one that is really pressing him. [LNB]'I feel that I can get there and I want to play for my country.'[LNB] Midfielder Richardson extends stay by signing three-year deal at SunderlandSunderland squad for 2010-11SUNDERLAND FC
