Matthew Claude Mills is a retired English professional footballer who made a significant impact in the EFL Championship as a defender. He began his career at Swindon Town before moving to Southampton’s academy, where he turned professional in 2002. Mills had loan spells at Coventry City and AFC Bournemouth, showcasing his potential and earning valuable first-team experience. In 2006, he signed with Manchester City, although injuries limited his playing time. His career took off after joining Doncaster Rovers, where he became a key player and helped the team secure promotion to the Championship in 2008.

In 2009, Mills transferred to Reading for a fee believed to be around £2 million. He quickly established himself as a leader, captaining the team in the Championship play-off final in 2011, where he scored a goal despite the team’s defeat. His leadership qualities were further recognized when he signed with Leicester City later that year, where he was appointed club captain. Mills continued to excel at Leicester, contributing to the team’s defensive strength and earning accolades for his performances.

Mills later joined Bolton Wanderers, where he became a fan favorite and was instrumental in the club’s defensive lineup. His tenure at Nottingham Forest saw him return to a captaincy role, where he continued to demonstrate his skills and leadership on the pitch. After a brief stint at Barnsley, he ventured to India to play for Pune City before returning to England as a player-coach at Forest Green Rovers.

Mills concluded his professional playing career in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and dedication. He represented England at the under-19 level, contributing to the team’s success in European competitions. Throughout his career, Mills was known for his physical style of play and strong defensive capabilities, making him a respected figure in English football.