Martin O’Neill, the new manager of Sunderland, has denied tabloid claims that Arsenal have been in touch over midfielder Kieran Richardson, with a view to bringing the player to the Emirates Stadium during the winter transfer window.
According to the latest reports, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is keen to bring the former Manchester United player to Arsenal during the current transfer window and has already made enquiries about the availability of the player.
However, The Black Cats manager has denied claims that the London side or any other side for that matter has made any moves for their midfielder and stressed on the fact that he will not be leaving Wearside anytime soon!
According to Martin O’Neill, Arsenal have not contacted him regarding the availability of the players and nor have they contacted the chairman of the club. He further added that he would keep his players updated regarding any development when it came to transfers.
Richardson began his youth career at West ham United before moving to Manchester United where he stayed till 2007, making 41 appearances for the senior side before moving to Sunderland on a permanent deal. The versatile midfielder, who can also play at left back, joined The Black Cats when Roy Keane was in charge but he also retained his place under Steve Bruce and is currently a favourite for the new manager O’Neill.
Although it seems that the manager does not want the versatile player to leave Sunderland, it is worth seeing if the player, who has experience of playing for a big club, can turn down the chance of joining a regular UEFA Champions League side. The latest football betting online markets suggest that Richardson may well be on the move, with Arsenal the clear favourites to land him.