Manchester City defender Micah Richards wants showdown talks with manager Mark Hughes after being axed for their 2-2 draw at Liverpool.

The Sunday Mirror says the England defender was stunned to be told he had been left out of the 16 players on duty.

A source said: "Micah expected to be involved at Liverpool and feels that he is being unfairly blamed for some of the team's defensive problems this season.

"It is well known that there was a problem between Micah and Mark Hughes at the end of last season.

"But he was told the matter was closed and that he was part of City's plans for the future despite rumours that he was about to be sold.

"He will ask Hughes whether those circumstances have changed."