James Milner: Gael Clichy surprised by training intensity at Manchester City

World Cup 2010 : Gael Clichy (France) – (Gettyimages)

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New Manchester City signing Gael Clichy is shocked by the intensity of the club’s training, according to James Milner.

The French left-back spent eight seasons at Arsenal before completing a £7 million switch to Eastlands earlier this month.

Milner, who joined City from Aston Villa last summer, believes the competitiveness of training during the club’s pre-season tour of America has taken Clichy by surprise.

Speaking in San Francisco, Milner said: “Gael hasn’t been here too long but he’s seen a few tackles fly in.

“He’s surprised at that because at Arsenal they don’t tackle too much in training. We train as we play but as soon as we come off the field everyone is together.

“It’s good to go on tour for the fitness but with the new boys it’s good to spend time with them. They’ll get to know us a lot quicker spending two-and-a-half weeks on the road rather than a few hours in training.”

Milner has struggled to make a big impact since his arrival at the club, but is now keen to persuade boss Roberto Mancini to play him in the middle of the park.

“He knows my best position is the middle and I think that too,” the 25-year-old added. “Hopefully, I’ve shown that when I’ve had a chance to play there but I’ll just keep working hard.”

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