Micah Richards ranks his top 10 toughest stadiums to visit

November 4, 2025 Kris Isaksen

Former England defender and TV pundit Micah Richards has revealed his list of the ten most intimidating stadiums he’s played at. From deafening atmospheres to hostile crowds, these grounds left a lasting impression on him. Here’s his countdown, starting from number 10.

10. The Dell – Southampton

Southampton FC — P.Cartwright / Shutterstock.com

Before moving to St Mary’s, Southampton’s old home ground, The Dell, had a famously tight pitch and raucous atmosphere. Richards recalled the crowd being right on top of you, creating a pressure cooker environment for any visiting team.

9. Roker Park – Sunderland

The passion of Sunderland fans at Roker Park made it a daunting place to visit, especially on a cold night. Richards noted how the noise levels and sheer intensity gave Sunderland a clear edge on home turf.

8. Selhurst Park – Crystal Palace

Selhurst Park may not be the biggest ground, but the energy from the Palace supporters is unmatched. Richards said the bouncing Holmesdale End made it feel like the stands were shaking during big matches.

7. Upton Park – West Ham United

The old Boleyn Ground, better known as Upton Park, had a fierce East End vibe that gave West Ham a serious home advantage. Richards found the crowd unforgiving and the tight surroundings intimidating for opponents.

6. Elland Road – Leeds United

Richards described Leeds United’s Elland Road as one of the most intense atmospheres he’s experienced. The fans' relentless backing and vocal presence made it a tough place to get a result.

5. The Den – Millwall

The Den is notorious for its hostile reception of away teams, and Richards didn’t hold back in placing it high on his list. The crowd’s fierce loyalty and aggression created a genuinely intimidating environment.

4. Stamford Bridge – Chelsea

While it might not seem the most obvious choice, Richards explained that the pressure of playing against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge was immense. The combination of high expectations and quality opposition made it a fortress during his playing days.

3. Britannia Stadium – Stoke City

“Can you do it on a cold, wet night in Stoke?” is more than just a cliché. Richards admitted that the Britannia Stadium, with its swirling winds and hostile fans, was one of the toughest tests in English football.

2. Old Trafford – Manchester United

The size, the history, and the sheer noise of Old Trafford made it a daunting destination, according to Richards. The pressure to perform in front of such a massive and passionate crowd made every mistake feel magnified.

1. Anfield – Liverpool

Top of Richards’ list is Anfield, home to Liverpool and one of football’s most legendary atmospheres. He highlighted the emotional pull of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and the intensity of the crowd as factors that make it the toughest ground he ever played at.