Manchester City winger Adam Johnson has admitted that last season at the Etihad Stadium was difficult for him.

The 24-year-old spent much of the campaign on the bench in what was his first full year with the Premier League champions.

The England international has now vowed to work harder in order to break into the first team.

"It was pretty hard watching from the sidelines because obviously you want to be out there helping the lads," he told the club's official website.

"It's tough, but you have to keep plugging away and just give your all. We won the title which was the main thing, but obviously you want to feel you've played your part, too.

"Things can change pretty quickly in football and this is a new season and we all start with a clean slate once again. What I need to do is respond, try even harder and react positively."

City begin the defence of their Premier League title at home to newly-promoted Southampton on Sunday, August 19.