Manchester City defender Micah Richards feels Carlos Tevez must win back the fans' trust.

Richards says supporters might lay the blame at the striker's feet if the Premier League leaders are overtaken by rivals Manchester United.

The England full-back said: "With the fans, it's probably 50-50. The best thing he can do is come back and get his head down.

"If we do end up winning the league and he's played a massive part in that, then I'm sure everyone will forgive him. If we don't, then it could be the opposite. It's a mixed feeling really but, for me, I'm glad to have him back because he's an outstanding player.

"He was our captain and leader, not only on the ball but off the ball as well, working hard, closing people down. He was a real nightmare to play against and to have that back in our team would be a boost for us.

"He's got something that maybe the other strikers don't have. Not in terms of ability but just knowing what the Premier League is like."