Player Profile: Men’s team – Matt Richardson

• #18 Matt Richardson
• “Don’t give up no matter what anyone’s opinion of you is.”
• Age: 26
• Nationality: Scottish
• Derby debut: 2016/17 vs Newcastle
• Apps: 26
• Goals: 28

Matt Richardson was the team’s top goal scorer in the 2019/20 season, with 13 in all competitions. Richardson joined Derby after he returned from university in 2015. Speaking about his move to the club, he said: “When I returned from university Matt Hardy approached me after playing at Willows (Sport Centre) and suggested coming down to train with the lads and think about signing on. Which I did and haven’t looked back.”

Richardson’s highlight of this season comes from beating Nottingham this season. He said: “It was my number one game I wanted to win this season after losing the previous season and not playing the second game against them that year. We achieved it in their own backyard. A sneaky freekick whilst we were a man down was an added bonus too.” Richardson also has had the chance to train within the Scotland squad, “To have the build-up experience and learning opportunities this season has been fantastic,” he said.  

Richardson is desperate to get back on the futsal court and begin the new season, he said: “The club is currently going through some massive changes and I cannot wait for it all to be going ahead once lockdown is over.”

He does not only have futsal as a main focus, working as a Teaching Assistant with SEN Students ranging from ages 4-19.

He also shared advice that he would give his younger self surrounding futsal, he said: “Play futsal sooner, work harder, listen and don’t give up no matter what anyone’s opinion of you as a person or a player is.”

Author: Toby Hill