Danny Mills has lifted the lid on his exit from Manchester City this week.

The England fullback told mcfc.co.uk: "I went to see the gaffer after he'd been here for just over a week and at this time of life now I'm in a position where I'm back, fully fit, and I want to play football.

"He fully understood that and he said at the time he didn't quite know what the situation was with everybody and he was looking to bring new players in. I just got on, did the right thing and worked hard, as I've always done and looked to compete for a place."

Despite featuring in most of the Blues' pre-season fixtures, the former Leeds defender was told games might be hard to come by with City this season.

"The Manager pulled me in last week and was very honest, which is quite refreshing in this day and age, for someone to call you in and speak to you openly and honestly," confirmed Mills.

"Sven told me I wasn't going to be first choice and not to be surprised if I'd only played three or four games before Christmas. The Manager said he's very happy with what I've been doing and happy for me to stay.

"He's pleased with my attitude and how I've worked well. Fitness and professionalism have never really been a problem for me, but he said that if I want to play regular first team football, then he'd be happy for me to look for a move elsewhere.

"He's been fair and honest and I've not got any problem with that whatsoever - I respect him for that.

"That's great to hear that from a manager. Too many managers are scared of upsetting players' egos these days, so for him to say what he has, I fully respect that."