Hard work is starting to pay off for Micah Richards.
After becoming England's youngest defender three years ago, the Manchester City star has lost his way somewhat.
Richards has been completely overlooked by Fabio Capello and the 21-year-old also fell out of favour at City, relegated to second-choice right-back behind Pablo Zabaleta at the start of this season.
Talk of a move was rife, with Aston Villa believed to be amongst those monitoring developments.
However, the Birmingham-born star appears to have heeded a few lessons.
Having forced his way back into Mark Hughes' starting line-up, Richards is beginning to show the ability that prompted Steve McClaren to hand him 11 international caps.
Although City were disappointed to be held at Bolton on Saturday, it was Richards who tore upfield to grab their second equaliser in a six-goal thriller.
And Hughes feels Richards can now start to fulfil his vast potential.
"It got to a point where Micah needed to knuckle down," said Hughes.
"That is what he has done. He has done really well in recent weeks and is in the team on merit.
"There is more to come and Micah accepts that. At the moment we are looking for him to maintain his current level and perhaps surpass it."
According to Hughes, Richards' problems stem from a common failure in young players, a lack of consistency.
Former City boss Stuart Pearce was prepared to forgive the odd lapse because Richards had the pace and strength to get himself out of trouble.
Now a couple of years older, Richards has found Hughes less willing to tolerate such failings.
"Micah's form has tended to burn brightly for a couple of games then starts to diminish again," said the Welshman.
"But recently he has been more solid and his concentration levels have been good. We are reaping the benefits of that.
"There is a challenge here and everyone has to step up to the mark, embrace it and enjoy it. Micah is doing that."
