Richards made his England debut in Amsterdam

The 18-year-old Manchester City star is being sued for breach of contract by his former agents Team Associates.

Managing director Andy Hobson was quoted as saying: "He's under contract with us and we're actively pursuing the action against the player."

But his new representatives SEM claims it has been the player's representative "for some time".

Richards released a statement saying: "I would like to confirm I am exclusively represented by the SEM Group and I am very happy to be with them and intend to continue being represented by them."

City spokesman Paul Tyrell told BBC Sport: "It's something we are aware of but not involved in. A player's decision on who represents him is a matter for the player."

Team Associates claims Richards, who became the fourth youngest player to represent England when he played in the friendly with Holland on Wednesday, is still under contract for another year.

According to the report, Richards decided to change his agents shortly after his birthday in June.

SEM negotiated the player's new #15,000-a-week contract during the summer.

Team Associates has employed sports lawyers Cramer Richards to fight its case.