Richards had been a first-team starter last season

Richards was a regular in the first team last season but has struggled in this campaign to be selected after picking up a foot injury last August.

His only spell away from the substitutes' bench was when Fabian Wilnis was suspended.

"I've got to play well to push my case for a return to the first," Richards told the club's official website.

"It's been quite frustrating for me because every player wants to be out on the pitch.

"But the team have been playing well, the defence has been looking strong so there has been little reason to change things around.

"It means I have to be patient and continue to work hard in training and play well in the reserves and wait until my chance comes along."