Although Richards became the youngest defender to represent the Three Lions when he was selected for the friendly against Holland in November 2006 and then went on to win 11 caps under Steve McClaren, so far he has been overlooked by Fabio Capello.
The Italian did offer a glimmer of hope last month when he selected Richards in his expanded 30-man provisional squad for the win over Hungary, only to cut the 22-year-old from his eventual 23-man party.
However, after forcing his way into Roberto Mancini's expensively assembled side this season and claiming a goal that Carlos Tevez also insists he scored during the 3-0 hammering of Liverpool at Eastlands,
Richards might have been in contention for a place in the opening Euro 2012 double-header against Bulgaria and Switzerland next month even without Wes Brown's surprise retirement.
"I was in the 30-man squad last time and didn't make the 23 but Wes has retired now so hopefully there is a spot there for me," said Richards.
Source: PA
Source: PA