Sunderland midfielder Kieran Richardson has no regrets over his time at Manchester United.

A junior with West Ham United, the move to Manchester was galling enough for 14-year-old Richardson, but his parents were devastated.

He told the Daily Mail: "My mum was really worried because I was moving so far away from home.

"It was hard for her but we all knew the sacrifices I had to make to pursue my dream.

"My dad was a West Ham fan and I was leaving his club and the youth set-up there was amazing. I was with people like Anton (Ferdinand), Joe Cole, Michael Carrick and players like Rio.

"Frank Lampard had already come through. I had a great relationship with the people there and it was hard to leave.

"But when Malcolm came calling and my dad asked what I wanted to do I said yes straightaway. My favourite player as a kid was Ryan Giggs and when Manchester United come calling, you don't turn them down.

"When I signed we met Sir Alex in a room and I think my dad was more nervous than me. There were some great coaches who helped my game tremendously.

"You receive the best football education in the world and the manager comes down and watches the kids play. It was an incredible time."