Richards was forced to undergo surgery to repair cartilage damage to his right knee at the end of last month, and was told he would be out for around six weeks.

However, the 20-year-old says he is making swift progress and believes he could be back quicker than anticipated.

"I had the operation nearly two weeks ago and things are looking good. Hopefully, I could be back even sooner than the six weeks," Richards said.

medical advice

"The operation was something that couldn't be avoided. I played in the derby at Old Trafford (a 2-1 win on 10th February) with it hurting. In the second half I picked up an ankle knock as well, so I was a wreck by the end of the game.

"After the Everton match (a 2-0 defeat on 25th February) the knee was swollen like a balloon and I couldn't carry on. The medical advice was to get it done before the end of the season, and that is what I did. It is for the best in the long term.

"I hate missing games, especially at such a crucial time but I will be giving it 100 per cent to be fit as soon as I possibly can. I will be back, and I will be back with a bang."