Aston Villa attacker secures League Two loan switch
By Harry Mail
Aston Villa forward Rico Richards has joined Stockport County on loan until the end of the season, as announced by the club's official website.
The 20-year-old has been given the green light to link up with the Hatters on a temporary basis to get some experience under his belt.
Richards, who is a former England youth international, has now linked up with Aston Villa teammate Louie Barry at Edgeley Park.
The youngster moved to Villa Park on a free transfer last summer following his exit from West Brom and hasn't made a senior appearance for Unai Emery's side during the first-half of this campaign.
He rose up through the academy ranks of the Baggies and played four times for their senior team, as well as representing the Midlands outfit at various youth levels.
Stockport are top of the League Two table and are eyeing promotion to League One this term after they lost in the play-off final on penalties last year to Carlisle United.
Dave Challinor's side have the likes of Wrexham, Mansfield Town and Barrow chasing them down at the top. Richards will give the Hatters more competition and depth in attacking areas and he will be aiming for plenty of game time in the North West.