Manchester City defender Eliaquim Mangala has stated that finding his rhythm during the second part of the Premier League season has helped him earn a place in the French national team for the upcoming European Championships.

Mangala has not enjoyed the most consistent of campaigns this term but the defender was included in the French squad for Euro2016 by manager Didier Deschamps.

The 25-year-old has now gone on to speak regarding his inclusion in the 23-man roster and has stated that rediscovering his rhythm for City back in March led to his Les Bleus recall.

He said: "When you are not picked, it is difficult to think about the Euros. I was injured for two months so it made sense that I wasn't called up.

"Personally, I am a bit mixed. At that time, I had a few injury niggles and needed to get my fitness back. I finished the season well, there was a lot to improve on.

"In March, you could not talk about fear [of missing the Euros] because there was still time. I said to myself there was time to start playing again and rediscover my rhythm."