Richard has returned ahead of schedule from his second cruciate injury and got a call-up to the bench for the trip to Highfield Road.
His substitute appearance now gives him the green light to push on, though typically, his first thoughts were of disappointment at not being able to help West Ham back into the game to secure at least a point.
"I was just disappointed that we lost; I think in the second half we played a lot better, got into the game, and it is unfortunate we lost to a good goal," he says.
"We didn't play particularly well in the first half but we scored and that gave us a lift; their equaliser was a bit of a knock-back and it was unfortunate we lost.
"It was a scrappy game altogether and they didn't play particularly well - we deserved at least a point.
"But their second goal was particularly good and those are the sort of things that beat you."
Of his own situation, he says:
"I am happy to be back and playing; whatever happens, happens, and as long as I am enjoying it that is the main thing.
"I wasn't really surprised to be on the bench because we have got a few injuries and it is a small squad."
Richard will now wait to see what offers he gets from other clubs and he adds:
"I have had my ups and downs but I am glad it is turning out for the better; I didn't really doubt I would come back and the only thought on my mind was trying to get the win on Monday.
"I will take what comes now and see what happens in the next few weeks.
"We now have some time on the training ground with a week off from playing so hopefully we can sort things out for next week."