CATCH UP ... Micah Richards

MICAH RICHARDS admits he is fed up with living in Manchester United’s shadow.

The England full-back has been on City’s books since he was a 14-year-old — and being second-best to the Reds is all he has known.

Now City have their chance to strike back as a win in Monday’s derby would see them leapfrog their neighbours on goal difference.

And the club’s longest-serving player admits that would be so sweet after playing second fiddle for so long.

Richards, 23, said: “Because United have always been better than us and have always had the bragging rights, it just makes it a little bit more special.

“I’ve played against them since I was part of the under-14s and they’ve always been better at every level.

“We’re not quite there yet, though we’re slowly but surely catching up. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come in such a short space of time.

“So much has changed at City in the last four years — particularly the playing staff with a whole host of new faces.

“Everyone wants to beat United because it’s a huge game and there’s never been a better time for this.”

Richards missed the victory at Wolves last Sunday with a hamstring problem but is confident he will win his battle for fitness.

He said: “Whether I’m going to be involved or not I don’t know.

“I had full training on Wednesday and it was fine.”