Train as we play - that's the City way

Former Arsenal defender Gaël Clichy has endured something of a culture shock on arrival at training with Manchester City, according to Citizens' teammate James Milner.

The French defender, who was at Arsenal for eight years, is said to be surprised at the ferocity of City’s practice sessions, which have in the past seen players come to blows on the training ground, an issue which manager Roberto Macini is more than happy to watch over.

The England international 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."

When Clichy joined the club over a week ago on a four-year deal, he was full of promising words for the team, and is hoping to enjoy success after moving to Eastlands for £7 million.

"I am really happy to be joining such a great club," said the left back last week.


 

"I hope I can add to the quality we already have here because we have a fantastic squad who I believe will continue to get better.

"I can't wait to get started and I think anything is possible with this team."

The 25-year-old has been getting grips with the gruelling sessions during City’s tour of North America, and speaking from San Francisco, Milner was also full of praise for the team he joined in 2010 from Aston Villa.

"We won the FA Cup and we're in the Champions League so it's been a great move so far," said the former Leeds United starlet.

"But you get your England place back by playing well for your club so that'll be my initial aim."