Milner has not started as many games as it was anticipated when he made a ?26million move from Aston Villa last summer, but he and his team-mates are still on course to match pre-season expectations.
While those outside Eastlands were tipping City to win the Premier League, the target laid down by their cash-rich Abu Dhabi-based owners was a place in next season's Champions League.
And, despite Sunday's defeat at Chelsea, Roberto Mancini's men are on target to claim one, holding a four-point lead over nearest rivals Tottenham, whom they will meet at Eastlands on May 10.
"We have the biggest scope to improve out of any team in the league," said Milner. "It is going to take time. There have been so many changes. You have to get that bond and learn how to play with each other.
"No team has been on fire this season. Chelsea had a great start, then struggled. Manchester United have somehow kept winning games without playing well. We have to get that mentality."
Source: PA
Source: PA