Manchester City youngster James McAtee believes his early struggles when going to Sheffield United made him a better player.

McAtee has always been highly rated within the City academy, but had a tough time when he first went to the Championship club.

He eventually became a first team star for the Blades, helping them earn promotion to the Premier League.

“I think I kind of went into it with the wrong mentality. Thinking 'I've done well all through my Academy [life] and I'll just do well again'," he reflected in an interview with City.

“It wasn't like that at all, I had to step up another level and get used to the different style of play and the physicality of men's football. I feel like I found myself there. I found the way I want to play and how I want to affect games.

“On the pitch I definitely feel like I've grown up and it was the first time I've moved out as well when I went to Sheffield [United]. I've definitely grown up off the pitch, so it's been a great experience. Hopefully it can help me out in the long run."