Matt Richards has been relishing his run in the Ipswich Town first-team.

The Blues' left-sided defender only broke into the full squad at the turn of the year, but since the departure of fans favourite Herman Hreidarsson, the 18-year-old has been filling the Icelandic's shoes with great aplomb.

The youngster told the Evening Gazette: "It's been really good to be involved in the last few games and I'm really happy that I've put in some quite good performances."

Richards knows that the club's recent financial perils have assisted his rise into the first eleven.

He said: "Obviously it's helped because of the club's difficulties and the fact that they've had to sell players, which has been unfortunate, but it has enabled me to come into the side."

And of the now departed Hreidarsson, Richards said: "It was sad to see Hermann go because he was a big help and gave me advice.

"But everyone else has been helping me out on-the-pitch especially Chris Makin as he plays on the left too."

Published Wednesday, April 9, 2003

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