France fullback Gael Clichy says his transfer to Manchester City from Arsenal last year had transformed him.
The 26-year-old - who was a surprise selection by France coach Laurent Blanc at the expense of former captain Patrice Evra for Friday's 2-0 Group D win over Ukraine.
"It's funny, but I am a vastly different player this year since I moved to City," said Clichy.
"In my head, it is a turning point in my career.
"I wanted to see where it could take me. I do not regret it for a moment, as I have gained in self-confidence.
"It has been 10 years that I have played in the Premier League, which is not bad.
"I am champion of England and that is important in the life of a player, one fells stronger."
West Bromwich Albion's Austrian midfielder Paul Scharner (L) vies with Manchester City's French defender Gael Clichy (R) during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and West Bromwich Albion at The Etihad stadium in Manchester, north-west England on April 11, 2012. AFP PHOTO/ADRIAN DENNIS RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or “live” services. Online in-match use limited to 45 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications.
