Veteran Dietmar Hamann is enjoying a renaissance under Sven Goran Eriksson at Manchester City.
Hamann enjoying life at Manchester City
Manchester City's veteran German midfielder Dietmar Hamann is enjoying a renaissance under Sven Goran Eriksson after seeing his career stall last season.
Hamann, nicknamed the "Kaiser", was signed by Eriksson's predecessor Stuart Pearce in July 2006 but then endured a frustrating first year at the club as he failed to command a regular starting berth.
This has all changed since Eriksson took over as the 34-year-old has started all ten Premier League games in City's fantastic start to the season.
Speaking of the contrast at the club since Eriksson took over, Hamann told The Guardian: "The whole place has changed. Last year was a real struggle. The supporters were unhappy and, at times, there was a really bad vibe."
He added: "The basis for any successful team is that everybody respects one another and treats each other in the right way, but we didn't have that last season.
"It was only when the new manager took over that things changed. We've bought a lot of new players and he told the ones already here that he wanted us to make them feel welcome because otherwise it would be impossible to integrate eight or nine new signings.
Spirit
"The team spirit has improved beyond words and we're seeing that on the pitch. We're playing some very good football - outstanding, at times - and the fans are going home happy from games.
"They have seen us beat Manchester United and go top of the league, things they haven't had for years. The atmosphere is so much better."
Speaking of his first season at the club, Hamann said: "I didn't play enough and, when I did, I didn't do well enough. I felt my second season would have to be different because I couldn't do another year like the first one.
"I didn't want to leave, I just wanted to play. I came here with a two-year contract and I didn't want the supporters to think, 'He's come here for two easy years and then he's going to call it a day'.
Ability
"I always believed in my ability and that, if I was fit, I should be in the team but this is the first time I have really enjoyed being at the club."
He attributes his success to Eriksson, while the Swede believes Hamann is his most important player.
Looking to the future, Hamann, who is set to receive a new contract in the next few months as his current deal expires in June, said: "A couple more years shouldn't be a problem.
"The older I get, the more I have to listen to my body but I don't feel that much different to two years ago. I don't see any reason why I can't continue for a few more years."
