Jordan Richards was a regular in the youth team's midfield between 2008 and 2011, and his consistency earned him a professional contract. He spent much of his first season as a pro playing in a less familiar right back role in the reserves. He performed well, though his route to the first team was blocked by the reliable Neil Austin, who didn't miss a single minute of that season, though Richards did get his first start in the 1-1 draw at Tranmere. When Austin was sent off in a game against Oldham in November 2012, Richards got his chance at right back and played well enough to keep Austin out of the side until injury ended his own season. The following summer saw a change of management at the club, and Colin Cooper used the versatile Richards at centre-half in the first few reserve matches. With competition for the right back slot increased by the signing of Michael Duckworth, this versatility may help the youngster's career as he tries to find a role for himself within the first team.