Matt Mills

{{Short description|English footballer (born 1986)}} {{for|the NASCAR driver|Matt Mills (racing driver)}} {{Use British English|date=October 2017}} {{Use dmy dates|date=December 2020}} {{good article}} {{Infobox football biography |name = Matt Mills |image = Matt Mills 2016.jpg |caption = Mills with Nottingham Forest in 2016 |full_name = Matthew Claude Mills<ref name="Hugman2010-11">{{cite book|editor-first = Barry J.|editor-last = Hugman|title = The PFA Footballers' Who's Who 2010–11|year = 2010|publisher = Mainstream Publishing|location = Edinburgh|isbn = 978-1-84596-601-0|page = 288 }}</ref> |birth_date = {{birth date and age|1986|7|14|df=y}}<ref name="Hugman2010-11"/> |birth_place = Swindon, England |height = {{height|ft=6|in=3}}<ref name="Hugman2010-11"/> |position = Centre-back |youthyears1 = {{0|0000}}–1999 |youthclubs1 = Swindon Town |youthyears2 = 1999–2003 |youthclubs2 = Southampton |years1 = 2003–2006 |clubs1 = Southampton |caps1 = 4 |goals1 = 0 |years2 = 2004 |clubs2 = → Coventry City (loan) |caps2 = 4 |goals2 = 0 |years3 = 2005 |clubs3 = → AFC Bournemouth (loan) |caps3 = 12 |goals3 = 3 |years4 = 2006–2008 |clubs4 = Manchester City |caps4 = 2 |goals4 = 0 |years5 = 2007 |clubs5 = → Colchester United (loan) |caps5 = 9 |goals5 = 0 |years6 = 2007 |clubs6 = → Doncaster Rovers (loan) |caps6 = 14 |goals6 = 2 |years7 = 2008 |clubs7 = → Doncaster Rovers (loan) |caps7 = 20 |goals7 = 1 |years8 = 2008–2009 |clubs8 = Doncaster Rovers |caps8 = 41 |goals8 = 0 |years9 = 2009–2011 |clubs9 = Reading |caps9 = 61 |goals9 = 4 |years10 = 2011–2012 |clubs10 = Leicester City |caps10 = 25 |goals10 = 1 |years11 = 2012–2015 |clubs11 = Bolton Wanderers |caps11 = 87 |goals11 = 6 |years12 = 2015–2018 |clubs12 = Nottingham Forest |caps12 = 82 |goals12 = 6 |years13 = 2018 |clubs13 = Barnsley |caps13 = 4 |goals13 = 0 |years14 = 2018–2019 |clubs14 = Pune City |caps14 = 15 |goals14 = 1 |years15 = 2019–2020 |clubs15 = Forest Green Rovers |caps15 = 19 |goals15 = 0 |totalcaps = 399 |totalgoals = 24 |nationalyears1 = 2004–2005 |nationalteam1 = England U19 |nationalcaps1 = 8 |nationalgoals1 = 0 }} '''Matthew Claude Mills''' (born 14 July 1986) is an English former professional footballer who played as a defender. He spent the majority of his career in the English Football League Championship, representing Leicester City, Reading, Bolton, Nottingham Forest, Doncaster Rovers, and Barnsley. He retired from professional football in 2020.

Born in Swindon, Mills began his youth career with the academy of Swindon Town before joining the Southampton Academy in 1999. He turned professional in 2002 and had loan spells with Coventry City and AFC Bournemouth during his time at Southampton. In 2006, he signed for Manchester City; however, his playing opportunities were limited due to injuries.

Following loan moves to Colchester United and Doncaster Rovers, he joined the latter on a permanent basis in 2008. After one season, Mills signed for Reading for a fee believed to be around £2 million. In May 2011, he captained Reading in the Championship play-off final defeat against Swansea City, in which he also scored. Later that year, after turning down an offer from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Mills signed for Leicester City and was appointed club captain. In 2012, he moved to Bolton Wanderers, where he finished third in the voting for the club's Player of the Season award for 2014–15. He subsequently joined Nottingham Forest in 2015.

After three seasons at Forest, Mills went on to play for Barnsley, Pune City, and Forest Green Rovers before announcing his retirement from professional football.

Mills was capped at youth level for England, making eight appearances for the under-19 team. His younger brother, Joseph Mills, has also played for Forest Green Rovers. In February 2009, football pundit and former Leicester City player Steve Claridge described Mills as "an old-fashioned centre-half who relishes the physical side of the game".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2009/feb/10/doncaster|title=Scouting report: Matt Mills|work=The Guardian|date=10 February 2009|access-date=20 July 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160313024741/http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2009/feb/10/doncaster|archive-date=13 March 2016}}</ref>

==Club career== ===Southampton=== Born in Swindon, Wiltshire,<ref name="Hugman2010-11"/> Mills began his youth career at Swindon Town in 1999 before joining Southampton at the age of fourteen.<ref name="MMBE2"/><ref>{{cite news|title=Kid Mills signed to academy from the Manor|url=http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5624230.Kid_Mills_signed_to_academy_from_the_Manor/|publisher=Daily Echo|date=16 December 2000|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914055029/http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5624230.Kid_Mills_signed_to_academy_from_the_Manor/|archive-date=14 September 2016}}</ref> Having progressed through the Southampton Academy and then the reserves, he signed his first professional contract with the club in 2002.<ref name="MMBE">{{cite news|title=Cherries swoop for Saints teenager|url=http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5357006.CHERRIES_SWOOP_FOR_SAINTS_TEENAGER/|publisher=Bournemouth Echo|date=21 February 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907153554/http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5357006.CHERRIES_SWOOP_FOR_SAINTS_TEENAGER/|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref>

In order to gain first-team experience, Mills was loaned to Coventry City for one month on 18 September 2004.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills joins Coventry City on loan|url=http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/mills-joins-city-on-loan-3143114|work=The Coventry Telegraph|date=18 September 2004|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907151831/http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/mills-joins-city-on-loan-3143114|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> On the same day, he made his debut for Coventry City, just hours after completing the necessary paperwork, in a 0–0 draw against Rotherham United.<ref>{{cite news|title=Saints kid fills City breach|url=http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/saints-kid-fills-city-breach-3143105|work=The Coventry Telegraph|date=18 September 2004|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907151834/http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/saints-kid-fills-city-breach-3143105|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> He made three further starts, including scoring an own goal in a 2–1 defeat to Ipswich Town on 3 October 2004, which proved to be his final appearance for the club.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/angry-reid-slams-goal-decision-3143398|title=Angry Reid slams 'goal' decision|work=The Coventry Telegraph|date=25 September 2004|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127191801/https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/angry-reid-slams-goal-decision-3143398|archive-date=27 November 2020|url-status=dead}} {{cite web|url=https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/city-take-a-beating-3143505|title=City take a beating|work=The Coventry Telegraph|date=29 September 2004|access-date=27 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127191519/https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/city-take-a-beating-3143505|archive-date=27 November 2020|url-status=dead}} {{cite news|title=Reid consoles Mills after own goal|url=http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/reid-consoles-mills-after-goal-3141260|work=The Coventry Telegraph|date=3 October 2004|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907152801/http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/reid-consoles-mills-after-goal-3141260|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> Mills then returned to Southampton, making four appearances. Although Coventry City sought to extend his loan for a second month, Southampton declined the request.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills will be all right on night|url=http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5565331.Mills_will_be_all_right_on_night/|publisher=Daily Echo|date=4 October 2004|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914055026/http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5565331.Mills_will_be_all_right_on_night/|archive-date=14 September 2016}}</ref>

On 21 February 2005, Mills joined AFC Bournemouth on a one-month loan.<ref name="MMBE" /> He made his Bournemouth debut the following day, starting and playing the full 90 minutes in a 1–1 draw against Torquay United.<ref>{{cite news|title=Fair shout!|url=http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5356783.FAIR_SHOUT_/|publisher=Bournemouth Echo|date=22 February 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907153754/http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5356783.FAIR_SHOUT_/|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> He subsequently scored his first goals for the club, against Tranmere Rovers and Swindon Town.<ref>{{cite news|title=AFC Bournemouth 1 – 1 Tranmere Rovers|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/4279803.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 February 2005|access-date=7 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=Swindon Town 0 – 3 AFC Bournemouth|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_2/4300309.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=5 March 2005|access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> His performances led to his loan being extended twice, eventually lasting until the end of the 2004–05 season.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills and Boom|url=http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5356576.Mills_and_boom_/|publisher=Bournemouth Echo|date=7 March 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919105454/http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5356576.Mills_and_boom_/|archive-date=19 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=Loan stars set to stay|url=http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5356185.LOAN_STARS_SET_TO_STAY/|publisher=Bournemouth Echo|date=18 March 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919112900/http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5356185.LOAN_STARS_SET_TO_STAY/|archive-date=19 September 2016}} {{cite web|url=https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/5355756.shaping-up-for-top-six/|title=SHAPING UP FOR TOP SIX|publisher=Dorset Echo|date=2 April 2005|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127175723/https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/5355756.shaping-up-for-top-six/|archive-date=27 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite news|title=Simek and Mills both extend loans|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/b/bournemouth/4479705.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=27 April 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170829210530/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/bournemouth/4479705.stm|archive-date=29 August 2017}} {{cite news|title=DESTINY IS IN OUR HANDS - SAYS MARCUS|url=https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/5354807.destiny-is-in-our-hands-says-marcus/|publisher=Dorset Echo|date=3 May 2005|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> In the final game of the season, he scored his third goal for Bournemouth in a 4–2 defeat to Bradford City.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bradford City 4 – 2 AFC Bournemouth|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/4473975.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 April 2005|access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> He finished the campaign with twelve appearances and three goals in all competitions.

Following his loan spell at Bournemouth, Mills was among several young players included in the first-team squad ahead of the 2005–06 season.<ref>{{cite news|title=Redknapp is in no mood to kid about|url=http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5547104.Redknapp_is_in_no_mood_to_kid_about/|publisher=Daily Echo|date=8 July 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907160930/http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5547104.Redknapp_is_in_no_mood_to_kid_about/|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> However, he remained out of the side for almost half the season before finally making his Southampton debut, starting in a 3–0 defeat to Watford on 26 December 2005.<ref name="sb0506"/><ref>{{cite news|title=Watford 3 – 0 Southampton|url=http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5640660.WATFORD_3___SAINTS_0/|publisher=Daily Echo|date=26 December 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914055046/http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5640660.WATFORD_3___SAINTS_0/|archive-date=14 September 2016}}</ref> After making three further appearances, Mills' future at Southampton became uncertain, as his contract was set to expire in the summer and he began attracting interest from Manchester City.<ref>{{cite news|title=Saints stars sweating on new deals|url=http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5641127.Saints_stars_sweating_on_new_deals/|publisher=Daily Echo|date=13 January 2006|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907162015/http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5641127.Saints_stars_sweating_on_new_deals/|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref>

===Manchester City=== Mills signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with Manchester City on 31 January 2006.<ref>{{cite news|title=Man City signs Mills from Saints|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/4665058.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=31 January 2006|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060221101549/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/4665058.stm|archive-date=21 February 2006}}</ref> There, he was reunited with Manchester City's reserve team manager Steve Wigley, who had previously worked with him during his time at Southampton's Academy. Mills described the opportunity as one he could not turn down.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills decides the City is his best option|url=http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5641724.Mills_decides_the_City_is_his_best_option|publisher=Daily Echo|date=28 January 2006|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907162150/http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5641724.Mills_decides_the_City_is_his_best_option/|archive-date=7 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=Mills relishing City challenge|url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-relishing-city-challenge-1019828|publisher=Manchester Evening News|date=7 February 2006|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907163347/http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-relishing-city-challenge-1019828|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref>

He was initially assigned to the club's reserve side.<ref name="Mills Ankle Injury 2006">{{cite web|url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-on-the-up-1050761|title=Mills on the up|publisher=Manchester Evening News|date=15 February 2007|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127173855/https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-on-the-up-1050761|archive-date=27 November 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, while playing for the reserves, he suffered an ankle injury that sidelined him for several weeks.<ref>{{cite news|title=Injury blow for new signing|url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/injury-blow-for-new-signing-1021458|publisher=Manchester Evening News|date=23 February 2006|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907163452/http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/injury-blow-for-new-signing-1021458|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> Mills made his first-team debut for Manchester City as a substitute for Danny Mills in the 84th minute of a 2–0 defeat to Chelsea on 25 March 2006.<ref>{{cite news|title=Chelsea 2 – 0 Manchester City|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4819946.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=25 March 2006|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070320053102/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4819946.stm|archive-date=20 March 2007}} {{cite web|url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/stu-no-fowler-regrets-1024445|title=Stu: No Fowler regrets|publisher=Manchester Evening News|date=23 March 2006|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127173801/https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/stu-no-fowler-regrets-1024445|archive-date=27 November 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="sb0506"/> Two weeks later, on 8 April 2006, he made his first start for the club, playing at right-back in a 2–1 loss against Tottenham Hotspur.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4867580.stm|title=Tottenham Hotspur 2–1 Manchester City|publisher=BBC Sport|date=8 April 2006|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060411152339/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4867580.stm|archive-date=11 April 2006|url-status=live}}</ref> He finished the 2005–06 season with two appearances for Manchester City.

At the start of the 2006–07 season, Mills sustained another ankle injury but recovered to make his first appearance of the campaign in a 4–0 victory over Wigan Athletic on 21 October 2006.<ref name="Mills Ankle Injury 2006"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/6050686.stm|title=Wigan Athletic 4–0 Man City|publisher=BBC Sport|date=21 October 2006|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061107114953/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/6050686.stm|archive-date=7 November 2006|url-status=live}}</ref> However, his first-team opportunities were limited, and on 26 January 2007, he was loaned to Colchester United on a one-month deal.<ref>{{cite news|title=Young duo sent out on loan|url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/young-duo-sent-out-on-loan-979755|publisher=Manchester Evening News|date=15 February 2007|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907180812/http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/young-duo-sent-out-on-loan-979755|archive-date=7 September 2016}} {{cite news|date=26 January 2007|url=https://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/colchester_united/6301965.stm|title=Mills secures move to Colchester|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=31 July 2008 }}</ref> He made his debut for Colchester on 30 January 2007, playing the full match and helping the team keep a clean sheet in a 1–0 win against Preston North End.<ref name="sb0607"/><ref>{{cite news|title=Soccer: Richards is Colchester's Hero|url=http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/1157952.Soccer__Richards_is_Colchester_s_hero/|work=Colchester Gazette|date=31 January 2007|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915225349/http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/1157952.Soccer__Richards_is_Colchester_s_hero/|archive-date=15 September 2016}}</ref> His performances led to two extensions of the loan, during which he made nine appearances.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills to stay at Colchester|url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-to-stay-at-colchester-983304|publisher=Manchester Evening News|date=26 February 2007|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917042927/http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-to-stay-at-colchester-983304|archive-date=17 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=Mills Boosted by Us' Spell|url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-boosted-by-us-spell-986223|publisher=Manchester Evening News|date=27 March 2007|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917042735/http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-boosted-by-us-spell-986223|archive-date=17 September 2016}} {{cite web|url=https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/1256684.soccer-mistakes-cost-colchester-dear/|title=Soccer: Mistakes cost Colchester dear|publisher=Gazette News|date=14 March 2007|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127200346/https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/1256684.soccer-mistakes-cost-colchester-dear/|archive-date=27 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Mills was recalled by Manchester City on 23 March 2007.<ref>{{cite news|title=Soccer: Mills heading back to City|url=http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/1282641.Soccer__Mills_heading_back_to_City/|work=Colchester Gazette|date=23 March 2007|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907182040/http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/1282641.Soccer__Mills_heading_back_to_City/|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref>

===Doncaster Rovers=== On 17 August 2007, Mills joined Doncaster Rovers on a six-month loan deal, linking up with manager Sean O'Driscoll for the second time in his career.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers signs Manchester City's Mills|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/d/doncaster/6957350.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=21 August 2007|access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> He made his debut for the club on 25 August 2007, coming on as a substitute in the 83rd minute for Gareth Roberts in a 2–1 defeat to Bournemouth.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 1 – 2 AFC Bournemouth|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_2/6952741.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=25 August 2007|access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> Mills then scored in consecutive matches for Doncaster, against Cheltenham Town and Walsall, on 29 September and 2 October 2007 respectively.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 2–1 Cheltenham Town|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7008232.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 September 2007|access-date=7 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 2–3 Walsall|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_2/7019571.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 October 2007|access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> After joining, he quickly established himself as a first-team regular, making seventeen consecutive appearances and helping Doncaster keep five clean sheets during that period.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 2–0 Crewe Alexandra|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/6984950.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 September 2007|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 2–0 Huddersfield Town|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7031441.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 October 2007|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest 0–0 Doncaster Rovers|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7043092.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=20 October 2007|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Doncaster 0 Tranmere 0|url=https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/doncaster-0-tranmere-0-3499497|publisher=Liverpool Echo|date=19 November 2007|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> On 21 November 2007, his loan spell was cut short due to a knee injury, and he returned to his parent club.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills has to end Doncaster loan|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/7104343.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=21 November 2007|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071123130452/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/7104343.stm|archive-date=23 November 2007}}</ref>

On 14 January 2008, Mills rejoined Doncaster Rovers on loan for the remainder of the season.<ref>{{cite news|title=Rovers sign Mills on loan again|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/d/doncaster/7186837.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 January 2008|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080117112626/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/d/doncaster/7186837.stm|archive-date=17 January 2008}}</ref> He immediately returned to the starting eleven, playing at centre-back.<ref>{{cite news|title=WHAT NEXT: What the future held for the promotion-winning Doncaster Rovers squad of 2007/08 - pt2|url=https://www.doncasterfreepress.co.uk/sport/nostalgia/what-next-what-future-held-promotion-winning-doncaster-rovers-squad-200708-pt2-2865573|publisher=Doncaster Free Press|date=28 May 2020|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Mills helped Doncaster keep four consecutive clean sheets between 29 January and 12 February 2008.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 2–0 Hartlepool United|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7210709.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 January 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Millwall 0–3 Doncaster Rovers|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7210743.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 February 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Doncaster Rover 2–0 Bristol Rovers|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7223871.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=9 February 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Cherries pay the Price as Cooper sees red|url=https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/2039573.cherries-pay-the-price-as-cooper-sees-red/|publisher=Bournemouth Echo|date=12 February 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, he was sent off with a straight red card in a 2–2 draw against Huddersfield Town on 5 April 2008.<ref>{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town 2–2 Doncaster Rovers|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7321314.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=5 April 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> After serving his suspension, he returned to the starting line-up against Leyton Orient and subsequently scored his third goal for Doncaster in a 2–1 victory over Luton Town on 26 April 2008.<ref>{{cite news|title=Leyton Orient 1–1 Doncaster Rovers|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7344083.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=19 April 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 2–0 Luton Town|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7358630.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 April 208|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Mills then played a key role in helping Doncaster secure promotion to the Championship, as they defeated Leeds United at Wembley Stadium in the League One play-off final on 25 May 2008.<ref name=BBC7418498 /><ref>{{cite news|title=Hayter breaks Leeds hearts|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/doncaster-vs-leeds/103145|publisher=Sky Sports|date=25 May 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> He finished the 2007–08 season with 41 appearances and three goals in all competitions.

Following promotion, Mills expressed a desire to join Doncaster permanently and was expected to sign during the close season.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eurosport.com/football/league-one/2007-2008/doncaster-table-mills-bid_sto1587579/story.shtml|title=DONCASTER TABLE MILLS BID|publisher=Eurosport|date=29 June 2008|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127213229/https://www.eurosport.com/football/league-one/2007-2008/doncaster-table-mills-bid_sto1587579/story.shtml|archive-date=27 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> After two months of speculation, during which his move was in doubt due to a managerial change at Manchester City, he was finally unveiled as Doncaster Rovers' record signing on 30 July 2008, signing a three-year contract.<ref>{{cite news|date=31 July 2008|url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11734_3890695,00.html|title=Donny land Mills|publisher=Sky Sports|access-date=31 July 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021133830/http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11734_3890695,00.html | archive-date=21 October 2012}}</ref> Doncaster paid £300,000 for his services, which at the time was the highest transfer fee in the club's history.<ref name="MM">{{cite web|title=Matt Mills joins Brendan's Babes|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matt-mills-joins-brendans-babes-4235647|publisher=Get Reading|access-date=20 March 2018|date=5 August 2009}}</ref>

Mills' first match after signing permanently came in the opening game of the season against Derby County, where he helped keep a clean sheet in a 1–0 win.<ref>{{cite news|title=Derby County 0–1 Doncaster Rovers|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/7540950.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=9 August 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Following the match, he was named in the Championship Team of the Week.<ref>{{cite news|title=MILLS INCLUDED IN TEAM OF THE WEEK|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/mills-included-in-team-of-the-week/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=12 August 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> In the following game against Cardiff City, Mills provided the assist for the opening goal in a 1–1 draw.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 1–1 Cardiff City|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/7551158.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 August 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> He continued to establish himself as a regular starter at centre-back.<ref>{{cite news|title=DRFC – DONCASTER V COVENTRY PREVIEW|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/drfc-doncaster-v-coventry-preview/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=29 August 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=DRFC -BROOKER MAKES INSTANT IMPACT|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/drfc-brooker-makes-instant-impact/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=30 November 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=DRFC- DONCASTER V PRESTON TEAM NEWS|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/drfc-doncaster-v-preston-team-news/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=13 April 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Mills helped the club keep three consecutive clean sheets between 15 November and 25 November 2008.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 1–0 Ipswich Town|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/7711451.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=15 November 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Burnley 0–0 Doncaster Rovers|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/7727277.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 November 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 0–0 Nottingham Forest|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/7741589.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=25 November 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, he was sent off with a straight red card in the 20th minute of a 2–1 defeat to Crystal Palace on 13 December 2008.<ref>{{cite news|title=Rovers undone by Lee strike|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/c-palace-vs-doncaster/10110|publisher=Sky Sports|date=13 December 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> After serving a one-match suspension, he returned to the starting line-up against Nottingham Forest on 26 December 2008, contributing to a 4–2 victory.<ref>{{cite news|title=DRFC – FOREST V DONCASTER PREVIEW|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/drfc-forest-v-doncaster-preview/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=24 December 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Forest felled in basement battle|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/n-forest-vs-doncaster/10758|publisher=Sky Sports|date=26 December 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Mills again helped Doncaster achieve three consecutive clean sheets between 20 January and 27 January 2009.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 3–0 Cheltenham Town|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/7837812.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=20 January 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 0–0 Aston Villa|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/7842615.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=24 January 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Sheffield United 0–1 Doncaster Rovers|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/7845622.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=27 January 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Despite missing five matches during the season, he made 45 appearances in the 2008–09 season.<ref name="MM"/><ref>{{cite news|title=DRFC – NORWICH CITY V DONCASTER ROVERS PREVIEW|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/drfc-norwich-city-v-doncaster-rovers-preview/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=24 October 2008|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=DRFC – DONCASTER V WEDNESDAY PREVIEW|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/drfc-doncaster-v-wednesday-preview/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=13 February 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=DRFC – WOLVES V DONCASTER TEAM NEWS|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/drfc-wolves-v-doncaster-team-news/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=2 May 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> For his performances, he was named Doncaster Rovers' Player of the Year.<ref name="POTY">{{cite news|title=DRFC – MILLS TAKES TOP AWARD|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/drfc-mills-takes-top-award/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=6 May 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

In the summer of 2009, Mills attracted interest from several clubs, including Birmingham City and Newcastle United.<ref>{{cite news|title=Rovers reject Mills offer|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11688/4888555/rovers-reject-mills-offer|publisher=Sky Sports|date=2 February 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Birmingham City unlikely to make move for Doncaster duo|url=https://www.business-live.co.uk/economic-development/birmingham-city-unlikely-make-move-3946217|publisher=Business Live|date=20 May 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=DRFC – MILLS RUMOURS CONTINUE|url=https://doncaster.vitalfootball.co.uk/drfc-mills-rumours-continue/|publisher=Doncaster Rovers Vital Football|date=1 July 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> On 10 June 2009, Nottingham Forest submitted an offer of £2 million, which was rejected by Doncaster.<ref>{{cite news|title=Forest's offer for Mills rejected|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/d/doncaster/8093378.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 June 2009|access-date=28 July 2009}}</ref> A subsequent offer from Reading was accepted, and Mills departed Doncaster in August 2009<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matt-mills-handed-reading-fc-4235731|title=Matt Mills to be handed Reading FC debut|date=11 August 2009|website=getreading.co.uk|access-date=24 October 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171024132531/http://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matt-mills-handed-reading-fc-4235731|archive-date=24 October 2017}}</ref>

===Reading=== On 5 August 2009, Mills was officially unveiled as a Reading player, signing a three-year contract under manager Brendan Rodgers. The exact transfer fee was undisclosed, though it was believed to be in the region of £2 million.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills Completes Reading Transfer|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/r/reading/8182160.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|quote=...joining for what BBC Berkshire understands to be in the region of £2m.| date=5 August 2009|access-date=5 August 2009}}</ref><ref name="MM"/>

Mills made his Reading debut on 11 August 2009, playing the full match in a 5–1 victory over Burton Albion in the first round of the League Cup.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~49722,00.html|title=Reading v Burton Albion|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=11 August 2009|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090815171536/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~49722,00.html|archive-date=15 August 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> He then made his league debut for the club on 18 August 2009, starting and keeping a clean sheet in a 0–0 draw against Swansea City.<ref name="sb0910" /><ref>{{cite news|title=Report: Federici save earns point|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10306~1760116,00.html|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=18 August 2009|access-date=19 August 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090821073414/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10306~1760116%2C00.html|archive-date=21 August 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> Four days later, on 22 August 2009, he scored his first goal for Reading in a 3–1 defeat to Sheffield United.<ref name="sb0910"/><ref>{{cite news|title=Reading 1–2 Sheffield United|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/8202323.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 August 2009|access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> However, Mills initially found first-team opportunities limited and was often named on the substitutes' bench for tactical reasons, according to manager Rodgers.<ref>{{cite news|title=Harper and Rosenior out as Reading FC sign three|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/harper-rosenior-out-reading-fc-4234608|publisher=Get Reading|date=1 September 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Ivar Ingimarsson no closer to Reading FC deal|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ivar-ingimarsson-no-closer-reading-4231693|publisher=Get Reading|date=4 December 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Rodgers: Mills left out for tactical reasons|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rodgers-mills-left-out-tactical-4231727|publisher=Get Reading|date=5 December 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> He also struggled with injuries during this period.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ryan Bertrand ruled out for QPR match|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ryan-bertrand-ruled-out-qpr-4233919|publisher=Get Reading|date=20 October 2009|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Alex Pearce: This is our chance to put things right|url=http://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/alex-pearce-chance-put-things-4234200|publisher=Get Reading|date=30 October 2009|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916210419/http://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/alex-pearce-chance-put-things-4234200|archive-date=16 September 2016}}</ref> Nevertheless, he scored his second goal for the club on 17 October 2009 in a 3–1 loss to West Bromwich Albion.<ref>{{cite news|title=West Bromwich Albion 3–1 Reading|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/8312723.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=17 October 2009|access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> By January, he had regained his place in the starting line-up, displacing Alex Pearce and Darren O'Dea.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills: Judge me now I'm fit again|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-judge-now-im-fit-4230770|publisher=Get Reading|date=8 January 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Mills and Griffin are starting to shore up Reading FC's defence|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-griffin-starting-shore-up-4229808|publisher=Get Reading|date=4 February 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Mills will enjoy Doncaster Rovers return with Reading FC|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-enjoy-doncaster-rovers-return-4229819|publisher=Get Reading|date=5 February 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

Mills received praise for his performances, notably after helping the club defeat Liverpool in the FA Cup third round replay on 13 January 2010.<ref>{{cite news |title=Liverpool 1 Reading 2 aet |url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/liverpool-1-reading-2-aet-4230910 |publisher=Get Reading |date=13 January 2010 |access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news |title=Reading v Liverpool - fan's verdict |url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/reading-v-liverpool---fans-4230951 |publisher=Get Reading |date=15 January 2010 |access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news |title=Reading v Liverpool - player ratings |url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/reading-v-liverpool---player-4230952 |publisher=Get Reading |date=15 January 2010 |access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, on 7 February 2010, against his former club Doncaster Rovers, he was sent off in the 80th minute for handball, resulting in a penalty, though Reading went on to win 2–1.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~47942,00.html |title=Doncaster Rovers 1–2 Reading |publisher=Reading F.C. |date=6 February 2010 |access-date=7 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100329151805/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10306~47942%2C00.html |archive-date=29 March 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> After serving a one-match suspension, he returned to the starting line-up against Crystal Palace on 17 February 2010, captaining the side in the absence of Ívar Ingimarsson as they won 3–1.<ref>{{cite news |title=Matejovsky and Sigurdsson could both miss Plymouth six-pointer |url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matejovsky-sigurdsson-could-both-miss-4229892 |publisher=Get Reading |date=9 February 2010 |access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news |title=Goal ace Simon Church full of confidence |url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/goal-ace-simon-church-full-4230092 |publisher=Get Reading |date=18 February 2010 |access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web |url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48035,00.html |title=Crystal Palace vs Reading |publisher=Reading F.C. |date=18 February 2010 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100326133156/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48035,00.html |archive-date=26 March 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> He captained the team again in the following match against Blackpool, which Reading lost 2–0.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48052,00.html |title=Blackpool vs Reading |publisher=Reading F.C. |date=20 February 2010 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100326133202/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48052,00.html |archive-date=26 March 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

Following a 1–0 victory over Queens Park Rangers in March 2010, Mills was seen making an apparent obscene gesture towards Reading supporters, for which he later apologised.<ref>{{cite news|title=Matt Mills thanks Reading fans for their support|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/r/reading/8580345.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 March 2010|access-date=22 March 2010}}</ref> Manager Brian McDermott attributed the gesture to Mills' passion, describing his form as "inspirational" and stating that it would not affect his relationship with the fans.<ref>{{cite news|title=No damage from Matt Mills behaviour – Brian McDermott|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/r/reading/8572122.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=17 March 2010|access-date=17 March 2010}}</ref> However, he was sent off for a second time that season on 3 April 2010 against Ipswich Town for a two-footed challenge in the 30th minute of a 2–1 defeat.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48865,00.html|title=Ipswich Town vs Reading|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=3 April 2010|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100407064045/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48865,00.html|archive-date=7 April 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref> After serving a four-match ban, he returned to the starting line-up and resumed captaincy duties against Watford on 24 April 2010, a match Reading lost 4–0.<ref>{{cite news|title=Matt Mills risks Reading FC red card appeal|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matt-mills-risks-reading-fc-4227511|publisher=Get Reading|date=7 April 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Matt Mills targets Watford comeback|url=http://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matt-mills-targets-watford-comeback-4227637|publisher=Get Reading|date=13 April 2010|access-date=7 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=Mills slams Reading FC's dismal performance at Watford|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-slams-reading-fcs-dismal-4227923|publisher=Get Reading|date=26 April 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> In Ingimarsson's absence, Mills captained the side for the remainder of the season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48799,00.html|title=Leicester City v Reading|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=24 March 2010|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100328154641/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48799,00.html|archive-date=28 March 2010|url-status=dead}} {{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48823,00.html|title=Reading vs West Bromwich Albion|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=27 March 2010|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100329151303/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48823,00.html|archive-date=29 March 2010|url-status=dead}} {{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48905,00.html|title=Reading v Coventry City|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=5 April 2010|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100409095315/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~48905,00.html|archive-date=9 April 2010|url-status=dead}} {{cite news|title=Mills hails incredible Royals turnaround|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-hails-incredible-royals-turnaround-4226669|publisher=Get Reading|date=7 May 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~47499,00.html|title=Reading vs Preston|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=2 May 2010|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110625110702/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~47499,00.html|archive-date=25 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> He finished the 2009–10 season with 30 appearances and two goals in all competitions.<ref name="sb0910" />

Ahead of the 2010–11 season, Mills stated that he intended to focus on his fitness rather than the captaincy.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills is only focusing on his fitness, not Reading FC captaincy|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-only-focusing-fitness-not-4224662|publisher=Get Reading|date=9 July 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, he continued as captain in Ingimarsson's absence.<ref>{{cite news|title=Royals are relaxed ahead of the new season|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/royals-relaxed-ahead-new-season-4223486|publisher=Get Reading|date=4 August 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Mills desperate to face Nottingham Forest|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-desperate-face-nottingham-forest-4223745|publisher=Get Reading|date=18 August 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Reading FC captain: "The pressure is lumped on Cardiff"|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/reading-fc-captain-the-pressure-4213740|publisher=Get Reading|date=14 May 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> In the opening match of the season, a 2–1 defeat to Scunthorpe United, Mills suffered an ankle injury that kept him out for one match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~52636,00.html|title=Reading v Scunthorpe United|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=7 August 2010|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100923083719/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~52636,00.html|archive-date=23 September 2010|url-status=dead}} {{cite news|title=Five face race to be fit for Pompey clash|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/five-face-race-fit-pompey-4223650|publisher=Get Reading|date=13 August 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> He returned on 21 August 2010 against Nottingham Forest and shortly afterwards scored twice in a 3–3 League Cup draw with Northampton Town.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~52728,00.html|title=Reading vs Nottm Forest|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=21 August 2010|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100924075615/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~52728,00.html|archive-date=24 September 2010|url-status=dead}} {{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~54521,00.html|title=Reading 3 – 3 Northampton Town|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=24 August 2010|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100827204557/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10306~54521%2C00.html|archive-date=27 August 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref> This was followed by scoring the winning goal in a 2–1 victory away at Leicester City three days later, in which he also made a crucial goal-line clearance and was named Man of the Match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~52766,00.html|title=Leicester City 1–2 Reading|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=27 August 2010|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100901054137/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10306~52766%2C00.html|archive-date=1 September 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref>

After returning from injury, Mills remained a regular starter at centre-back throughout the season.<ref>{{cite news|title=Zurab is keen to stay at Reading FC|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/zurab-keen-stay-reading-fc-4222396|publisher=Get Reading|date=10 September 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Simon Church has faith in Reading FC defence|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/simon-church-faith-reading-fc-4222573|publisher=Get Reading|date=17 September 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Brian McDermott on QPR revenge mission|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/brian-mcdermott-qpr-revenge-mission-4216814|publisher=Get Reading|date=4 February 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> On 28 September 2010, he was sent off for a second bookable offence in a 1–0 win against Ipswich Town.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~51477,00.html|title=Reading 1–0 Ipswich Town|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=28 September 2010|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101018161434/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10306~51477%2C00.html|archive-date=18 October 2010|url-status=dead}} {{cite news|title=Fuming Reading FC captain Mills blasts referees|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fuming-reading-fc-captain-mills-4222820|publisher=Get Reading|date=30 September 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> On 30 October 2010, he scored his fourth goal of the season against his former club Doncaster Rovers in a 4–3 victory.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~51697,00.html|title=Reading 4– 3 Doncaster Rovers|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=30 October 2010|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101101223410/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10306~51697%2C00.html|archive-date=1 November 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref> On 1 March 2011, he scored the only goal in a 1–0 win over Everton to send Reading into the FA Cup quarter-finals.<ref>{{cite news|last=Chowdhury|first=Saj|title=Everton 0 – 1 Reading|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/9409680.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=3 October 2011|date=1 March 2011}}</ref> In a subsequent match against Ipswich Town, he suffered a groin injury after just 16 minutes and was substituted, with Reading winning 3–1.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~53123,00.html|title=Ipswich Town vs Reading|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=8 March 2011|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110309204534/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~53123,00.html|archive-date=9 March 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> It was announced he would be sidelined for a month.<ref>{{cite news|title=Injury worries for Reading FC ahead of Manchester City|url=http://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/injury-worries-reading-fc-ahead-4215699|publisher=Get Reading|date=9 March 2011|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916205709/http://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/injury-worries-reading-fc-ahead-4215699|archive-date=16 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=Matt Mills a major doubt for FA Cup clash|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matt-mills-major-doubt-fa-4215770|publisher=Get Reading|date=11 March 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=McDermott: Reading FC squad mentality is key|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mcdermott-reading-fc-squad-mentality-4214627|publisher=Get Reading|date=5 April 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Mills had also previously missed matches that season through injury.<ref>{{cite news|title=Suspended star to miss Reading FC v Leeds United|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/suspended-star-miss-reading-fc-4220346|publisher=Get Reading|date=22 November 2010|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Battling Mills seeks West Brom scalp|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/battling-mills-seeks-west-brom-4217913|publisher=Get Reading|date=7 January 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Karacan and Hunt in race to face Hull|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/karacan-hunt-race-face-hull-4218187|publisher=Get Reading|date=15 January 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> He returned to the starting line-up on 12 April 2011 against Scunthorpe United, helping the team keep a clean sheet in a 2–0 win.<ref>{{cite news|title=Irish charms on target for Reading FC|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/irish-charms-target-reading-fc-4214776|publisher=Get Reading|date=13 April 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

Following his return, Mills played a key role in helping Reading secure a play-off place.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~52499,00.html|title=Coventry City vs Reading|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=30 April 2011|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110504025056/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~52499,00.html|archive-date=4 May 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> He featured in both legs of the play-off semi-final against Cardiff City, helping the team win 3–0 on aggregate and reach the final.<ref>{{cite news|title=Reading 0–0 Cardiff City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/13324691|publisher=BBC Sport|date=13 May 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web|url=http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~55071,00.html|title=Cardiff City vs Reading|publisher=Reading F.C.|date=17 May 2011|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110520000305/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10306~55071,00.html|archive-date=20 May 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> On 30 May 2011, Mills captained Reading in the Championship play-off final against Swansea City, scoring a header in the 57th minute and receiving a booking in a 4–2 defeat at Wembley Stadium.<ref>{{cite news|title=Reading 2–4 Swansea City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/13497817|publisher=BBC Sport|date=30 May 2011|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100721195910/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13497817.stm|archive-date=21 July 2010}}</ref> He finished the 2010–11 season with 45 appearances and six goals in all competitions.

[[File:Mills vs Cardiff.jpg|thumb|left|160px|Mills playing for Leicester City against Cardiff City.]]

Ahead of the 2011–12 season, Mills was expected to continue as Reading captain.<ref>{{cite news|title=Captain Ivar was one of the best|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/captain-ivar-one-best-4212519|publisher=Get Reading|date=3 June 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, he was linked with a move away from the club, with interest from Bolton Wanderers, Stoke City, and Wolverhampton Wanderers.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hammond aims to keep Reading FC stars|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/hammond-aims-keep-reading-fc-4212529|publisher=Get Reading|date=3 June 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Reading FC boss aims to keep Wolves at bay|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/reading-fc-boss-aims-keep-4212692|publisher=Get Reading|date=15 June 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Stoke City target Reading FC captain|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/stoke-city-target-reading-fc-4212722|publisher=Get Reading|date=15 June 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Although he initially expressed a desire to remain at Reading,<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills keen to stay with Reading FC|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-keen-stay-reading-fc-4212607|publisher=Get Reading|date=9 June 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> on 1 July 2011 it was reported that he would be leaving after both parties failed to agree on a new contract.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills fails to agree new deal|url=https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mills-fails-agree-new-deal-4211330|publisher=Get Reading|date=1 July 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

===Leicester City=== [[File:Earnshaw & Mills.jpg|thumb|250px|Mills in a league match against Cardiff City on 25 September 2011]]

On 7 July 2011, Mills signed a four-year contract with Leicester City for an undisclosed fee, reportedly earning £25,000 per week (£1.3 million per year). He was subsequently confirmed as club captain for the 2011–12 season,<ref name="Matt Mills denies falling out with Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson"/><ref>{{cite web|title=City Complete Mills Signing|url=http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10274~2388526,00.html|publisher=Leicester City F.C.|date=7 July 2011|access-date=7 July 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709114527/http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0%2C%2C10274~2388526%2C00.html|archive-date=9 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> reuniting with former Manchester City manager Sven-Göran Eriksson.<ref name="Defender Matt Mills leaves Reading for Leicester City">{{citation|title=Defender Matt Mills leaves Reading for Leicester City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/14064234|publisher=BBC Sport|date=8 July 2011|access-date=11 March 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120223091518/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/14064234|archive-date=23 February 2012}}</ref> Mills had rejected an offer from Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers in order to join Leicester.<ref name="Championship club-by-club 2011-12 season preview">{{citation|title=Championship club-by-club 2011–12 season preview|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/14386768|publisher=BBC Sport|date=5 August 2011|access-date=10 March 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150523112017/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/14386768|archive-date=23 May 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Wolves move on from Matt Mills|url=https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/football/wolverhampton-wanderers-fc/2011/07/08/wolves-move-on-from-matt-mills/|work=Express and Star|date=8 July 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Ian Stringer of BBC Radio Leicester described him as a "solid centre-half" and selected him as the club's key player for the 2011–12 season.<ref name="Championship club-by-club 2011-12 season preview"/>

Mills made his league debut for Leicester City on 6 August 2011, captaining the side to a 1–0 victory over Coventry City at the Ricoh Arena.<ref name="sb1112" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lcfc.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10274~58432,00.html|title=Coventry City vs Leicester City|publisher=Leicester City F.C.|date=6 August 2011|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110921043112/http://www.lcfc.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10274~58432,00.html|archive-date=21 September 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> He continued to captain the team in a number of matches, firmly establishing himself in the starting line-up.<ref>{{cite news|title=MILLS HONOURED TO WEAR ARMBAND ON DEBUT|url=https://leicester.vitalfootball.co.uk/mills-honoured-to-wear-armband-on-debut/|publisher=Leicester City Vital Football|date=21 July 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web|url=http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10274~2466173,00.html|title=Mills: We'll Thrive on Derby Atmosphere|publisher=Leicester City F.C.|date=29 September 2011|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110930100615/http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10274~2466173,00.html|archive-date=30 September 2011|url-status=dead}} {{cite web|url=http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10274~2470911,00.html|title=Mills: Big Win Was Coming|publisher=Leicester City F.C.|date=3 October 2011|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111005063211/http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10274~2470911,00.html|archive-date=5 October 2011|url-status=dead}} {{cite web|url=http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10274~2471841,00.html|title=King: Skipper Showing His Class|publisher=Leicester City F.C.|date=4 October 2011|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111005061738/http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10274~2471841,00.html|archive-date=5 October 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> Mills helped Leicester keep four consecutive clean sheets between 17 September and 1 October 2011.<ref>{{cite news|title=Seagulls shot down by Foxes|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/leicester-vs-brighton/238335|publisher=Sky Sports|date=17 September 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Bluebirds and Foxes share spoils|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/cardiff-vs-leicester/245013|publisher=Sky Sports|date=25 September 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Foxes hold Boro in bore draw|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/mboro-vs-leicester/245014|publisher=Sky Sports|date=28 September 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Foxes rout Rams on Sven milestone|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/leicester-vs-derby/238371|publisher=Sky Sports|date=1 October 2011|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, on 16 October 2011, he was sent off in the 55th minute of a 2–0 defeat to Birmingham City for a two-footed tackle on Morgaro Gomis.<ref>{{cite news|last=Fletcher|first=Paul|title=Birmingham City 2–0 Leicester City|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/15231235.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=20 October 2011|date=16 October 2011}}</ref> After serving a three-match ban, he returned to the starting line-up against Burnley on 1 November 2011, contributing to a 3–1 victory.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10274~2489121,00.html|title=St. Ledger: Changes Keep Things Fresh|publisher=Leicester City F.C.|date=21 October 2011|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111022105843/http://www.lcfc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10274~2489121,00.html|archive-date=22 October 2011|url-status=dead}} {{cite web|url=http://www.lcfc.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10274~58206,00.html|title=Burnley vs Leicester City|publisher=Leicester City F.C.|date=1 November 2011|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111104190413/http://www.lcfc.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10274~58206,00.html|archive-date=4 November 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Six weeks after his first dismissal, Mills was sent off again for a professional foul on Aaron McLean in a 2–1 defeat to Hull City on 3 December 2011.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hull City vs Leicester City|url=http://www.lcfc.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10274~58542,00.html|publisher=Leicester City F.C.|access-date=11 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111205065432/http://www.lcfc.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10274~58542%2C00.html|archive-date=5 December 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> Following a two-match suspension, he returned to the starting line-up against Ipswich Town on 26 December 2011, in a 2–2 draw.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lcfc.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10274~58340,00.html |title=Leicester City vs Ipswich Town |publisher=Leicester City F.C. |date=26 December 2011 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120313102008/http://www.lcfc.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10274~58340,00.html |archive-date=13 March 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Mills scored his only goal for Leicester City in a 2–0 win over Southampton at St Mary's Stadium on 24 January 2012.<ref name="Southampton 0-2 Leicester">{{citation|title=Southampton 0–2 Leicester City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/16571369|publisher = BBC Sport|date=24 January 2012|access-date=7 March 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120206103636/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16571369|archive-date=6 February 2012}}</ref>

In February 2012, reports emerged of an alleged dispute with new manager Nigel Pearson,<ref name="Leicester's Nigel Pearson says Leeds want Matt Mills">{{cite news|title=Leicester's Nigel Pearson says Leeds want Matt Mills|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/17225020|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 March 2012|access-date=11 March 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120305090541/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17225020|archive-date=5 March 2012}}</ref> which Mills denied.<ref name="Matt Mills denies falling out with Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson">{{citation|title=Matt Mills denies falling out with Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/18740580|publisher=BBC Sport|date=7 July 2012|access-date=7 July 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120709013532/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18740580|archive-date=9 July 2012}}</ref> He subsequently lost the captaincy and was relegated to training with the club's youth academy.<ref name="Matt Mills denies falling out with Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson" /><ref name="Leicester City exclusive: Skipper Matt Mills set to go out on loan to Leeds" /> He did not travel with the squad for the 1–0 victory against Derby County on 23 February 2012, prompting speculation about his future at the club.<ref name="Leicester City exclusive: Skipper Matt Mills set to go out on loan to Leeds">{{cite web|title=Leicester City exclusive: Skipper Matt Mills set to go out on loan to Leeds|url=http://www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/Leicester-City-exclusive-Skipper-Matt-Mills-set/story-15317214-detail/story.html|publisher=This is Leicestershire|access-date=25 February 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120229221539/http://www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/Leicester-City-exclusive-Skipper-Matt-Mills-set/story-15317214-detail/story.html|archive-date=29 February 2012}}</ref> Mills was later informed by phone that he was permitted to leave Leicester.<ref name="Matt Mills denies falling out with Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson" /> Although linked with moves to league rivals Leeds United and West Ham United,<ref name="Hammers eye Mills move">{{citation|title=Hammers eye Mills move|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7572084/|publisher=Sky Sports|date= 5 March 2012|access-date=11 March 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308211833/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7572084|archive-date=8 March 2012}}</ref> he refused to leave on loan, stating it would have been "very disrespectful for the fans".<ref name="Matt Mills denies falling out with Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson" /> Despite no transfer materialising, he did not play for Leicester again, finishing the season with one goal from 31 appearances in all competitions.

===Bolton Wanderers=== On 4 July 2012, Mills signed a three-year contract with Bolton Wanderers for an undisclosed fee.<ref>{{cite web|title=Wanderers Seal Mills Deal |publisher=Bolton Wanderers F.C |url=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/page/General/0,,1004~2831924,00.html?|access-date=4 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120706073828/http://www.bwfc.co.uk/page/General/0%2C%2C1004~2831924%2C00.html|archive-date=6 July 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Upon joining the club, he stated: "This deal has worked out perfectly for me, mainly because Bolton are a fantastic club. Speaking to the manager, I got the vibe of what the place and club are about and the ambitions of getting back into the Premier League."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/page/General/0,,1004~2832198,00.html|title=Mills on Bolton Switch|publisher=Bolton Wanderers F.C.|date=4 July 2012|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120706073743/http://www.bwfc.co.uk/page/General/0%2C%2C1004~2832198%2C00.html|archive-date=6 July 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Mills was given the number four shirt for the 2012–13 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/squad-numbers-announced-5.6.12-217943.aspx|title=Squad Number Announced|publisher=Bolton Wanderers F.C.|date=5 July 2012|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202133545/http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/squad-numbers-announced-5.6.12-217943.aspx|archive-date=2 February 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>

He made his debut for the club in a 2–0 home victory over Derby County on 21 August 2012.<ref name="sb1213"/><ref>[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/19252279 "Bolton Wanderers 2–0 Derby County"] BBC Sport. 21 August 2012. Retrieved 15 September 2012.</ref> Mills scored his first goal for Bolton on 15 September 2012 in a 2–1 win against Watford.<ref name="sb1213"/><ref>[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/19527913 "Bolton Wanderers 2–1 Watford"] BBC Sport. 15 September 2012. Retrieved 15 September 2012.</ref> After joining, he quickly established himself as a first-team regular at centre-back.<ref>{{cite news|title=Wanderers centre-back trio still in limbo|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/9871295.wanderers-centre-back-trio-still-in-limbo/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=14 August 2012|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Knight delight at defensive partnership|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/9951169.knight-delight-at-defensive-partnership/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=27 September 2012|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Mills goal mends a broken heart|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10010911.mills-gets-all-clear-for-boro-duel/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=27 October 2012|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, he suffered an upper thigh injury and was substituted in the 85th minute of a 2–2 draw against Huddersfield Town on 8 December 2012.<ref>{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town 2 Bolton Wanderers 2|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10097890.huddersfield-town-2-bolton-wanderers-2/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=8 December 2012|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Initially expected to be out for two to three weeks, he was ultimately sidelined for four to five months.<ref>{{cite news|title=Reasons to be cheerful|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10097892.reasons-to-be-cheerful/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=10 December 2012|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Double injury blow for Whites with duo out until the new year|url=http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10109092.Double_injury_blow_for_Whites_with_duo_out_until_the_new_year/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=14 December 2012|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907193835/http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10109092.Double_injury_blow_for_Whites_with_duo_out_until_the_new_year/|archive-date=7 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=New centre half is now priority for Wanderers|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10142587.new-centre-half-is-now-priority-for-wanderers/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=5 January 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Freedman starting to re-shape squad after bringing in key men and trimming wage bill|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10202312.freedman-starting-to-re-shape-squad-after-bringing-in-key-men-and-trimming-wage-bill/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=2 February 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Medical discovery is a boon for Mills|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10284360.medical-discovery-is-a-boon-for-mills/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=13 March 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Mills returned on 2 April 2013, coming on as a late substitute for Chris Eagles to help secure a 1–0 victory against Huddersfield Town.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bolton Wanderers 1–0 Huddersfield Town|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/21935433|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 April 2013|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130404040210/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/21935433|archive-date=4 April 2013}}</ref> Following his return, he was unable to reclaim a regular starting position due to the form of Craig Dawson, Tim Ream, and Zat Knight.<ref>{{cite news|title=Who will take over from Craig Dawson when he goes?|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10353387.who-will-take-over-from-craig-dawson-when-he-goes/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=13 April 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Dougie Freedman says Whites will be fine without Craig Dawson|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10384115.dougie-freedman-says-whites-will-be-fine-without-craig-dawson/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=27 April 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web|url=http://www.lionofviennasuite.com/2013/5/14/4329552/matt-mills-exit-talk-hots-up-as-phrases-like-it-is-understood-are-used|title=Matt Mills exit talk "hots up"|publisher=Lion of Vienna Suite|date=14 May 2013|access-date=14 May 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130613152213/http://www.lionofviennasuite.com/2013/5/14/4329552/matt-mills-exit-talk-hots-up-as-phrases-like-it-is-understood-are-used|archive-date=13 June 2013}}</ref> He finished the 2012–13 season with 21 appearances and one goal in all competitions.

In July 2013, Mills was linked with a move to Leeds United to reunite with his former Reading manager Brian McDermott. Bolton manager Dougie Freedman confirmed that Leeds had made an enquiry, stating he wanted Mills to stay but would allow him to leave if the right offer was made.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/latest-whites-news/leeds-united-make-a-move-for-bolton-wanderers-defender-mills-1-5870717|title=Leeds United make a move for Bolton Wanderers defender Mills|work=Yorkshire Evening Post|date=19 July 2013|access-date=19 July 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130721154239/http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/latest-whites-news/leeds-united-make-a-move-for-bolton-wanderers-defender-mills-1-5870717|archive-date=21 July 2013}} {{cite web|url=http://www.lionofviennasuite.com/2013/7/19/4537648/freedman-confirms-matt-mills-inquiry-by-leeds-says-he-wants-to-keep|title=Freedman confirms Matt Mills inquiry by Leeds, says he wants to keep him|publisher=Lion of Vienna Suite|date=19 July 2013|access-date=19 July 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130723195051/http://www.lionofviennasuite.com/2013/7/19/4537648/freedman-confirms-matt-mills-inquiry-by-leeds-says-he-wants-to-keep|archive-date=23 July 2013}}</ref>

[[File:Chelsea 2 Bolton Wanderers 1 Chelsea progress to the next round of the Capital One cup (15328829246).jpg|thumb|right|300px|Mills ''(left)'' playing for Bolton Wanderers against Chelsea in the League Cup, 2014.]]

At the start of the 2013–14 season, Mills returned to the first team in the League Cup second round tie against Tranmere Rovers. He was one of two Bolton players to convert a penalty, though the club lost 4–2 in a shoot-out after a 120-minute draw.<ref>{{cite news|title=Tranmere Rovers 1 – 1 (4 – 2 in the ps) Bolton Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/23764056|publisher=BBC Sport|date=27 August 2013|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151210203712/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23764056|archive-date=10 December 2015}} {{cite web|url=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/preview-tranmere-a-1015475.aspx |title=Preview: Tranmere Rovers (Away)|publisher=Bolton Wanderers F.C.|date=26 August 2013|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130828151156/http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/preview-tranmere-a-1015475.aspx|archive-date=28 August 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> Following his return, Mills regained his place in the side and formed defensive partnerships with David Wheater and Tim Ream.<ref>{{cite news|title=Dougie Freedman searches to strengthen Bolton Wanderers' defence|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10661005.dougie-freedman-searches-to-strengthen-bolton-wanderers-defence/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=6 September 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Who are Bolton Wanderers' best centre-half pairing?|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10666473.who-are-bolton-wanderers-best-centre-half-pairing/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=11 September 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Matt Mills aims to cement his Bolton Wanderers return|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10676574.matt-mills-aims-to-cement-his-bolton-wanderers-return/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=16 September 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Matt Mills hopes Bolton Wanderers have the right character now|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10725361.matt-mills-hopes-bolton-wanderers-have-the-right-character-now/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=9 October 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Dougie Freedman keen to ease burden on his Bolton Wanderers back four|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10923223.dougie-freedman-keen-to-ease-burden-on-his-bolton-wanderers-back-four/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=9 January 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> His performances in central defence alongside Ream and Wheater were praised by manager Freedman.<ref>{{cite news|title=Dougie Freedman hails Bolton Wanderers standard bearers Matt Mills and Tim Ream|url=http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10732074.Dougie_Freedman_hails_Bolton_Wanderers_standard_bearers_Matt_Mills_and_Tim_Ream/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=11 October 2013|access-date=7 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=Where will Dougie Freedman find his Plan B?|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10695483.where-will-dougie-freedman-find-his-plan-b/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=25 September 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Matt Mills and Tim Ream look to maintain Bolton Wanderers defensive partnership|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10758641.matt-mills-and-tim-ream-look-to-maintain-bolton-wanderers-defensive-partnership/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=24 October 2013|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

During a 3–2 defeat to Wigan Athletic on 15 December 2013, Mills was penalised for handball, resulting in a converted penalty for the opposition.<ref>{{cite news |title=FULL TIME: Wigan Athletic 3 Wanderers 2 |url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10878750.full-time-wigan-athletic-3-wanderers-2/ |publisher=The Bolton News |date=15 December 2013 |access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news |title=WANDERERS v WIGAN: Match marks |url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10878906.wanderers-v-wigan-match-marks/ |publisher=The Bolton News |date=15 December 2013 |access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> After the match, both Mills and Freedman criticised the decision, with Mills stating: "The ball came over my head and I'm facing my own goal, I got a push in my back and the referee gave a corner. All of a sudden I see he has given a penalty because the linesman on the other side of the pitch has seen the ball intentionally hit my hand. I haven't got eyes in the back of my head but how does he change his mind? I'm gutted for the fans, obviously."<ref>{{cite news |title=Freedman hits out at Wigan players over penalty |url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10878909.freedman-hits-out-at-wigan-players-over-penalty/ |publisher=The Bolton News |date=16 December 2013 |access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news |title=Matt Mills claims innocence in penalty incident |url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/10878912.matt-mills-claims-innocence-in-penalty-incident/ |publisher=The Bolton News |date=16 December 2013 |access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

On 11 January 2014, Mills scored his first goal of the season in a 1–1 draw against Nottingham Forest.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bolton Wanderers 1 – 1 Nottingham |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/25599436 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=11 January 2014 |access-date=7 September 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140118050159/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25599436 |archive-date=18 January 2014}}</ref> However, he was later sidelined with a minor knee problem sustained against Watford on 22 February 2014.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bolton Wanderers 2–2 Watford |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/26201968 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=22 February 2014 |access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news |title=Bolton Wanderers defender Matt Mills to miss derby duel with Blackburn Rovers |url=http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/11038997.Bolton_Wanderers_defender_Matt_Mills_to_miss_derby_duel_with_Blackburn_Rovers/ |publisher=The Bolton News |date=27 February 2014 |access-date=7 September 2016}} {{cite news |title=Matt Mills return from injury is a big boost to Bolton Wanderers boss Dougie Freedman |url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/11092670.matt-mills-return-from-injury-is-a-big-boost-to-bolton-wanderers-boss-dougie-freedman/ |publisher=The Bolton News |date=21 March 2014 |access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> After a month out, he returned to the first team on 12 April 2014, assisting Jermaine Beckford's goal in a 1–0 victory over Barnsley.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bolton Wanderers 1 – 0 Barnsley|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/26830311|publisher=BBC Sport|date=12 April 2014|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140412085944/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/26830311|archive-date=12 April 2014}}</ref> Mills finished the 2013–14 season with 35 appearances and one goal in all competitions.<ref name="sb1314" />

Ahead of the 2014–15 season, Mills was named vice-captain to Jay Spearing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/jay-spearing-officially-announced-as-new-club-captain-26.7.14-1783426.aspx|title=Jay Spearing officially announced as new club captain|publisher=Bolton Wanderers F.C.|date=26 July 2014|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324085420/http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/jay-spearing-officially-announced-as-new-club-captain-26.7.14-1783426.aspx |archive-date=24 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> He maintained a regular place in the starting line-up, forming partnerships with Ream and Dorian Dervite.<ref>{{cite news|title=Time will tell whether Bolton Wanderers' new look squad has what it takes to go up|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/11383440.time-will-tell-whether-bolton-wanderers-new-look-squad-has-what-it-takes-to-go-up/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=2 August 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=All systems go for Bolton Wanderers boss Dougie Freedman ahead of Brighton clash|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/11428865.all-systems-go-for-bolton-wanderers-boss-dougie-freedman-ahead-of-brighton-clash/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=23 August 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Dougie Freedman's constant search for Bolton Wanderers' best back line|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11503078.dougie-freedmans-constant-search-for-bolton-wanderers-best-back-line/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=30 September 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=The only way is up, says Bolton Wanderers defender Matt Mills after Wigan Athletic win|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11604524.the-only-way-is-up-says-bolton-wanderers-defender-matt-mills-after-wigan-athletic-win/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=15 November 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Return to defensive solidity pleases Bolton Wanderers boss Neil Lennon|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11826649.return-to-defensive-solidity-pleases-bolton-wanderers-boss-neil-lennon/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=2 March 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Mills scored his first goal of the season on 23 August 2014 in a 2–1 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.<ref>{{cite news|title=Brighton & Hove Albion 2 – 1 Bolton Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/28815202|publisher=BBC Sport|date=23 August 2014|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222133119/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28815202|archive-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Three days later, on 26 August 2014, he captained the side for the first time that season and helped Bolton win 3–2 after extra time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/report-crewe-2-3-bolton-aet-26.8.14-1877375.aspx|title=Report: Crewe 2-3 Bolton (AET)|publisher=Bolton Wanderers F.C.|date=26 August 2014|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140827102628/http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/report-crewe-2-3-bolton-aet-26.8.14-1877375.aspx|archive-date=27 August 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> He captained the team again in the League Cup against Chelsea, scoring in a 2–1 defeat.<ref>{{cite news|title=Capital One Cup: Chelsea beat Bolton Wanderers 2–1 at Stamford Bridge to reach fourth-round|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/chelsea-vs-bolton/325942|publisher=Sky Sports|date=24 September 2014|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915005111/http://www.skysports.com/football/chelsea-vs-bolton/325942|archive-date=15 September 2016}} {{cite news|title=Don't write us off, urges Bolton Wanderers defender Matt Mills|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11497485.dont-write-us-off-urges-bolton-wanderers-defender-matt-mills/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=26 September 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

Mills then scored the only goal in a 1–0 win over Birmingham City on 18 October 2014.<ref>{{cite news|title=Birmingham City 0 – 1 Bolton Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/29579621|publisher=BBC Sport|date=18 October 2014|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151212102611/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29579621|archive-date=12 December 2015}}</ref> Following Spearing's injury, Mills captained the side in a 3–0 win over Cardiff City on 4 November 2014 and retained the armband for the next two months as the club battled relegation.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bolton Wanderers 3 – 0 Cardiff City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/29751271|publisher=BBC Sport|date=4 November 2014|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905013436/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29751271|archive-date=5 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Matt Mills happy to see Bolton Wanderers out of the drop zone|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11592936.matt-mills-happy-to-see-bolton-wanderers-out-of-the-drop-zone/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=11 November 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=We're tough enough to derail in-form Ipswich, says Bolton Wanderers defender Matt Mills|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11659669.were-tough-enough-to-derail-in-form-ipswich-says-bolton-wanderers-defender-matt-mills/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=11 December 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=FABRICE MUAMBA: Matt Mills looks like a born leader|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11663053.fabrice-muamba-matt-mills-looks-like-a-born-leader/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=12 December 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> During this period, Bolton kept four consecutive clean sheets between 29 November and 19 December 2014.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bolton Wanderers 1–0 Huddersfield Town|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30155732|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 November 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Reading 0–0 Bolton Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30256845|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 December 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Bolton Wanderers 0–0 Ipswich Town|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30356700|publisher=BBC Sport|date=13 December 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Clean sheets are making Bolton Wanderers hard to beat|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11668773.clean-sheets-are-making-bolton-wanderers-hard-to-beat/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=16 December 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Millwall 0–1 Bolton Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30443728|publisher=BBC Sport|date=19 December 2014|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

On 27 January 2015, Mills scored and provided an assist for Liam Trotter in a 4–2 defeat to Rotherham United.<ref>{{cite news|title=Rotherham United 4 – 2 Bolton Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30991161|publisher=BBC Sport|date=27 January 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150406202142/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/30991161|archive-date=6 April 2015}}</ref> A week later, on 4 February 2015, Mills played as a makeshift striker in an FA Cup tie against Liverpool due to an injury crisis, with Bolton losing 2–1.<ref>{{cite news|title=FA CUP VERDICT: Bolton Wanderers 1 Liverpool 2|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11771817.fa-cup-verdict-bolton-wanderers-1-liverpool-2/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=4 February 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Plenty of buzz, crackle and spark for Bolton Wanderers as the big-time returns to the Macron in Liverpool FA Cup clash|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/11773070.plenty-of-buzz-crackle-and-spark-for-bolton-wanderers-as-the-big-time-returns-to-the-macron-in-liverpool-fa-cup-clash/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=5 February 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> He then suffered an injury that kept him out for several weeks.<ref>{{cite news|title=Lennon: Wanderers' defensive frailty at Derby is a concern|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11778878.lennon-wanderers-defensive-frailty-at-derby-is-a-concern/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=7 February 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Bolton Wanderers defender Matt Mills hoping for bright start at Nottingham Forest|url=http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11800430.Matt_Mills_hoping_for_bright_start_at_Nottingham_Forest/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=18 February 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907201908/http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11800430.Matt_Mills_hoping_for_bright_start_at_Nottingham_Forest/|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> Mills returned to the starting line-up on 21 February 2015 against Nottingham Forest but was sent off for a second bookable offence in a 4–1 loss, leading to a one-match suspension.<ref>{{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest 4–1 Bolton Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/31466192|publisher=BBC Sport|date=21 February 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160221140709/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/31466192|archive-date=21 February 2016}} {{cite news|title=Wanderers boss Neil Lennon critical of his team's lack of discipline|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11813023.wanderers-boss-neil-lennon-critical-of-his-teams-lack-of-discipline/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=24 February 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> After returning, he continued to captain the side for a further nine matches.<ref>{{cite news|title=FULL TIME: Wonderkid Clough seals victory for Wanderers against Brighton|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/11825623.full-time-wonderkid-clough-seals-victory-for-wanderers-against-brighton/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=28 February 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=10 topics that are top of Bolton Wanderers manager Neil Lennon's summer to-do list|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/12876369.10-topics-that-are-top-of-bolton-wanderers-manager-neil-lennons-summer-to-do-list/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=8 April 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=SEASON REVIEW: Bolton Wanderers player ratings|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/12939829.season-review-bolton-wanderers-player-ratings/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=11 May 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, he suffered two further injuries that ruled him out for the remainder of the season.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bolton Wanderers ace Emile Heskey 'feels at home' at The Macron|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/12885583.bolton-wanderers-ace-emile-heskey-feels-at-home-at-the-macron/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=13 April 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Bolton Wanderers skipper Matt Mills could have played his last game|url=https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/12913678.bolton-wanderers-skipper-matt-mills-could-have-played-his-last-game/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=25 April 2015|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Mills finished the 2014–15 season with 41 appearances and five goals in all competitions.<ref name="sb1415" />

At the end of the season, Mills finished third in the club's Player of the Year voting, receiving 17 per cent of the votes behind Josh Vela and Tim Ream.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/tim-ream-named-as-bolton-wanderers-201415-player-of-the-season-2432956.aspx|title=Tim Ream crowned 2014/15 Player of the Season|publisher=Bolton Wanderers F.C.|date=1 May 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150502162455/http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/tim-ream-named-as-bolton-wanderers-201415-player-of-the-season-2432956.aspx|archive-date=2 May 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> Despite being offered a new contract by manager Neil Lennon, Mills was among 13 players released by the club in May 2015 as part of cost-cutting measures.<ref>{{cite news|title=Trio offered new deals at Bolton Wanderers|url=http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/12884318.Trio_offered_new_deals_at_Bolton_Wanderers/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=11 April 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917004931/http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/12884318.Trio_offered_new_deals_at_Bolton_Wanderers/|archive-date=17 September 2016}} {{cite web|url=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/bolton-wanderers-announce-retained-list-2457225.aspx|title=Bolton Wanderers announce Retained List|publisher=Bolton Wanderers F.C.|date=15 May 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905204024/http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/bolton-wanderers-announce-retained-list-2457225.aspx|archive-date=5 September 2015|url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="MMBN1">{{cite news|title=Skipper axed at Bolton Wanderers as cost-cutting measures continue|url=http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/12952534.Skipper_axed_at_Wanderers_as_cost_cutting_measures_continue/|publisher=The Bolton News|date=15 May 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907203544/http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/12952534.Skipper_axed_at_Wanderers_as_cost_cutting_measures_continue/|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref>

===Nottingham Forest=== On 1 July 2015, Mills signed for Nottingham Forest as a free agent, reuniting with former Bolton manager Dougie Freedman in the process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/mills-signs-for-forest-2518565.aspx|title=Mills signs for Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest FC|date=1 July 2015|access-date=1 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150910081222/http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/mills-signs-for-forest-2518565.aspx|archive-date=10 September 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> Upon joining the club, he was assigned the number five shirt for the new season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/squad-numbers-announced-2598252.aspx|title=Squad Numbers Announced|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=7 August 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151002065319/http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/squad-numbers-announced-2598252.aspx|archive-date=2 October 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Mills made his Nottingham Forest debut in the opening game of the season, a 1–0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.<ref>{{cite news|title=Brighton & Hove Albion 1–0 Nottingham Forest|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/33729037|publisher=BBC Sport|date=7 August 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415115410/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/33729037|archive-date=15 April 2016}}</ref> He captained the side for the first time following Henri Lansbury's injury on 29 August 2015, in a 2–1 loss to Cardiff City.<ref>{{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest 1 Cardiff City 2: Match report: Michail Antonio goal proves a late consolation|url=http://www.nottinghampost.com/nottingham-forest-1-cardiff-city-2-match-report/story-27700333-detail/story.html|work=Nottingham Post|date=29 August 2015|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150831180137/http://www.nottinghampost.com/Nottingham-Forest-1-Cardiff-City-2-Match-report/story-27700333-detail/story.html|archive-date=31 August 2015}}</ref> After his debut, Mills started each of Forest's first eight matches of the season, scoring twice, before sustaining an injury shortly after equalising against Middlesbrough on 19 September 2015, which forced him to miss the following match against Huddersfield Town.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/august/bolton-v-forest/|title=Bolton Wanderers v Nottingham Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=19 September 2015|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130135537/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/august/bolton-v-forest/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/september/qpr-v-forest/|title=Queens Park Rangers v Nottingham Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=12 September 2015|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130135532/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/september/qpr-v-forest/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/september/birmingham-v-forest/|title=Birmingham City v Nottingham Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=18 September 2015|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130135530/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/september/birmingham-v-forest/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite web|title=Nottingham Forest 1–2 Middlesbrough|url=http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/forest-v-middlesbrough-match-report-2470330.aspx|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=19 September 2015|access-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150929062646/http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk//news/article/forest-v-middlesbrough-match-report-2470330.aspx|archive-date=29 September 2015|url-status=dead}} {{cite web|url=http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/mills-could-play-2704587.aspx|title=Mills could play|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=22 September 2015|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925123906/http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/mills-could-play-2704587.aspx|archive-date=25 September 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> He returned to the starting line-up against Hull City on 3 October 2015 but was sent off in the 87th minute by referee Nigel Miller following an aerial challenge with Hull's on-loan striker Chuba Akpom, as Forest lost 1–0.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nottingham Forest 0–1 Hull City|url=http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/forest-v-hull-match-report-2470323.aspx|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=3 October 2015|access-date=4 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150929062646/http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/forest-v-hull-match-report-2470323.aspx|archive-date=29 September 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> After serving a three-match suspension, Mills returned as captain against Sheffield Wednesday on 31 October 2015, in a 1–0 defeat.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nottinghampost.com/Return-injured-players-provide-big-boost/story-28056894-detail/story.html|title=Return of injured players will provide 'big boost' for Nottingham Forest|work=Nottingham Post|date=27 October 2015|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151028125750/http://www.nottinghampost.com/Return-injured-players-provide-big-boost/story-28056894-detail/story.html|archive-date=28 October 2015|url-status=dead}} {{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/october/sheffield-wednesday-1-0-forest/|title=Sheffield Wednesday 1-0 Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=3 November 2015|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200927221621/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/october/sheffield-wednesday-1-0-forest/|archive-date=27 September 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Following his return, Mills regained his place in the starting eleven at centre-back and resumed captaincy duties in the absence of Chris Cohen and Andy Reid.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/november/preston-v-forest/ |title=Preston North End v Nottingham Forest |publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C. |date=3 November 2015 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130141106/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/november/preston-v-forest/ |archive-date=30 November 2020 |url-status=live}} {{cite web |url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/december/wolves-v-forest/ |title=Wolves v Nottingham Forest |publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C. |date=11 December 2015 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021071258/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/december/wolves-v-forest/ |archive-date=21 October 2020 |url-status=live}} {{cite web |url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/december/forest-v-mk-dons/ |title=Nottingham Forest v Milton Keynes Dons |publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C. |date=19 December 2015 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021072417/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2015/december/forest-v-mk-dons/ |archive-date=21 October 2020 |url-status=live}} {{cite news |title=MILLS – IT'S STARTING TO COME TOGETHER |url=https://forest.vitalfootball.co.uk/mills-its-starting-to-come-together/ |publisher=Nottingham Forest Vital Football |date=21 January 2016 |access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web |url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/april/a-blossoming-partnership/ |title=A blossoming partnership |publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C. |date=22 April 2016 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130153445/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/april/a-blossoming-partnership/ |archive-date=30 November 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref> On 5 December 2015, he scored twice in a 3–0 win over Fulham, with a third headed effort in stoppage time hitting the crossbar.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/34951381|title=Nottingham Forest 1–0 Fulham|publisher=BBC Sport|date=5 December 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151207073402/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34951381|archive-date=7 December 2015}}</ref> For his performance, he was named in the Championship Team of the Week.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.efl.com/news/2015/december/sky-bet-football-league-team-of-the-week/|title=Sky Bet Football League Team of the Week|publisher=The Football League|date=7 December 2015|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200927095426/https://www.efl.com/news/2015/december/sky-bet-football-league-team-of-the-week/|archive-date=27 September 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Having played a key role in an unbeaten December, Mills was nominated for the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month award on 7 January 2016, but lost out to Adam Clayton.<ref>{{cite web |title=Mills in the mix |url=http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/mills-in-the-mix-2887428.aspx |publisher=Nottnigham Forest F.C. |date=7 January 2016 |access-date=9 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160610164411/http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk//news/article/mills-in-the-mix-2887428.aspx |archive-date=10 June 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Five days later, on 12 January 2016, he scored his fifth goal of the season in a 1–1 draw with Birmingham City.<ref>{{cite news |title=Nottingham Forest 1–1 Birmingham City |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/35229559 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=12 January 2016 |access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> He then helped Forest keep four consecutive clean sheets between 16 January and 6 February 2016.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/january/forest-v-bolton/ |title=Nottingham Forest v Bolton Wanderers |publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C. |date=16 January 2016 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130141325/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/january/forest-v-bolton/ |archive-date=30 November 2020 |url-status=live}} {{cite web |url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/january/middlesbrough-v-forest/ |title=Middlesbrough v Nottingham Forest |publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C. |date=23 January 2016 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021080208/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/january/middlesbrough-v-forest/ |archive-date=21 October 2020 |url-status=live}} {{cite web |url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/january/forest-v-qpr2/ |title=Nottingham Forest v Queens Park Rangers |publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C. |date=29 January 2016 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130141324/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/january/forest-v-qpr2/ |archive-date=30 November 2020 |url-status=live}} {{cite web |url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/february/leeds-v-forest/ |title=Leeds United v Nottingham Forest |publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C. |date=6 February 2016 |access-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130141318/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/february/leeds-v-forest/ |archive-date=30 November 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref> In his first season at Forest, Mills made 42 appearances and scored five goals in all competitions.

Mills made his first appearance of the 2016–17 season in Forest's opening match, a 4–3 victory over Burton Albion under new manager Philippe Montanier.<ref>{{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest 4–3 Burton Albion|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/36929864|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160808182305/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/36929864|archive-date=8 August 2016}}</ref> He continued to feature regularly at centre-back.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/august/conquering-the-challenge/|title=Conquering the challenge|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=9 August 2016|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130151519/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/august/conquering-the-challenge/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest news: Reds need a new Mills or Chambers – not something you hear every day!|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.news/2019/10/16/nottingham-forest-new-mills-chambers-goals/|publisher=Nottingham Forest News|date=16 October 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Lee Clarke's Forest blog: Worrall fits the bill for Reds|url=https://www.ilkestonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/football/lee-clarkes-forest-blog-worrall-fits-bill-reds-764956|publisher=Ilkeston Advertiser|date=7 November 2016|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/november/osborn-praises-defensive-display/|title=Osborn praises defensive display|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=20 November 2016|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130170621/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/november/osborn-praises-defensive-display/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> On 14 September 2016, he scored his first goal of the season in a 2–2 draw against Rotherham United.<ref>{{cite web|title=Rotherham United 2 - 2 Nottingham Forest|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/37293370|publisher=BBC|access-date=26 April 2018|date=14 September 2016}}</ref> A month later, he was sent off in a 3–1 defeat to Newcastle United, a decision which manager Montanier stated had been exaggerated by the fourth official.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nottingham Forest boss slams fourth official for 'exaggerating' red card during defeat at Newcastle|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/nottingham-forest-boss-slams-fourth-12389296|publisher=Chronicle Live|access-date=26 April 2018|date=31 December 2016}}</ref> Mills subsequently served a one-match suspension.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/january/match-preview-barnsley-h/|title=Match preview: Barnsley (H)|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=1 January 2017|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200928160100/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/january/match-preview-barnsley-h/|archive-date=28 September 2020|url-status=live}}</ref>

Earlier that season, he had also been sidelined due to injury, suspension, and tactical changes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/august/we-have-hard-work-to-do/|title=We have hard work to do|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=26 August 2016|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130152119/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/august/we-have-hard-work-to-do/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/september/aston-villa-v-forest/|title=Aston Villa v Nottingham Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=11 September 2016|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921161128/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/september/aston-villa-v-forest/|archive-date=21 September 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/september/forest-v-fulham/|title=Nottingham Forest v Fulham|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=27 September 2016|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130160034/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/september/forest-v-fulham/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/october/a-first-half-to-forget/|title=A first half to forget|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=19 October 2016|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130160221/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/october/a-first-half-to-forget/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> After Montanier's departure and the sale of captain Henri Lansbury, Mills was named captain by caretaker manager Gary Brazil, having previously captained six of the preceding seven matches.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/december/derby-v-forest/|title=Derby County v Nottingham Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=11 December 2016|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130163241/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/december/derby-v-forest/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/december/forest-v-preston/|title=Nottingham Forest v Preston North End|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=14 December 2016|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130163621/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2016/december/forest-v-preston/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/january/birmingham-v-forest/|title=Birmingham City v Nottingham Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=14 January 2017|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130162752/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/january/birmingham-v-forest/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> However, he was substituted after 55 minutes in Brazil's first match in charge due to a groin injury, which was later confirmed would sideline him for two months.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/january/more-of-the-same/|title=More of the same|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=24 January 2017|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130153149/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/january/more-of-the-same/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest suffer blow as skipper Matt Mills set for lengthy spell on sidelines|first=James|last=Nursey|work=mirror.co.uk|date=23 January 2017|access-date=23 January 2017|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/nottingham-forest-suffer-blow-skipper-9678456|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170125212219/http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/nottingham-forest-suffer-blow-skipper-9678456|archive-date=25 January 2017}}</ref> On 4 April 2017, he returned to the starting line-up against Wolverhampton Wanderers, playing the full match in a 1–0 defeat.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/april/wolves-v-forest/|title=Wolves v Nottingham Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=4 April 2017|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130164701/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/april/wolves-v-forest/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> His return was short-lived, as he suffered a knock against Blackburn Rovers on 14 April 2017 and was subsequently substituted, missing the following two matches.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/april/forest-v-blackburn/|title=Nottingham Forest v Blackburn Rovers|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=14 April 2017|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130165138/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/april/forest-v-blackburn/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/april/match-preview-cardiff-a/|title=Match preview: Cardiff (A)|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=16 April 2017|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130165140/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/april/match-preview-cardiff-a/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Mills returned to the squad on 29 April 2017 against Queens Park Rangers, coming on as a 62nd-minute substitute in a 2–0 defeat.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/april/qpr-v-forest/|title=Queens Park Rangers v Nottingham Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=29 April 2017|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130165558/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/april/qpr-v-forest/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> At the end of the 2016–17 season, he had made 30 appearances and scored one goal in all competitions.

At the start of the 2017–18 season, Mills continued to feature regularly at centre-back.<ref>{{cite news|title=Five things we learned from Nottingham Forest's 1-0 win over Millwall|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/football-news/five-things-learned-nottingham-forests-285621|work=Nottingham Post|date=5 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Carayol and Cummings on target as Nottingham Forest survive nervy finale to beat Shrewsbury Town|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/carayol-cummings-target-nottingham-forest-297268|work=Nottingham Post|date=8 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Jordan Smith 'let down' by defence as Nottingham Forest suffer first defeat of season at Barnsley|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/jordan-smith-let-down-defence-330580|work=Nottingham Post|date=15 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> In the absence of Michael Mancienne, he captained the side for the first time that season on 19 August 2017, in a 2–1 win over Middlesbrough.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/august/forest-2-1-middlesbrough/|title=Nottingham Forest 2-1 Middlesbrough|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=19 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130171801/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/august/forest-2-1-middlesbrough/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Mills went on to captain five of the next six matches.<ref>{{cite news|title=This is how Liam Bridcutt did on his Nottingham Forest debut against former club Leeds United|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/how-liam-bridcutt-nottingham-forest-386712|work=Nottingham Post|date=26 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Matt Mills put in a captain's performance - five things we learned from Nottingham Forest's win over Sunderland|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/sport-opinion/matt-mills-put-captains-performance-468011|work=Nottingham Post|date=13 September 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Liam Bridcutt shines despite home defeat for Nottingham Forest against Wolves|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/football-news/liam-bridcutt-shines-despite-home-486520|work=Nottingham Post|date=16 September 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Frustration grows for Nottingham Forest as Fulham inflict fourth straight defeat on Reds|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/match-reports/frustration-grows-nottingham-forest-fulham-537369|work=Nottingham Post|date=26 September 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Mark Warburton clarifies situation over Nottingham Forest captaincy|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/football-news/mark-warburton-clarifies-situation-over-605311|work=Nottingham Post|date=11 October 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, he was sidelined for one match due to suspension.<ref>{{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest defender Matt Mills ruled out of clash with high-flying Sheffield United|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/football-news/nottingham-forest-defender-matt-mills-546137|work=Nottingham Post|date=28 September 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> After serving his suspension, he found himself out of the starting line-up for two months, being named on the bench and making only one appearance during this period.<ref>{{cite news|title=Would you bring back Ward, Vaughan, Cash or Mills for Nottingham Forest's Derby clash?|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/would-you-bring-back-ward-617216|work=Nottingham Post|date=12 October 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Brilliant Kieran Dowell treble fires Nottingham Forest to win at Hull City AND one point off the top six|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/brilliant-kieran-dowell-treble-fires-695486|work=Nottingham Post|date=28 October 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Daryl Murphy back with a bang for Nottingham Forest as he shakes off some of his World Cup heartbreak with winning goal|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/daryl-murphy-back-bang-nottingham-811566|work=Nottingham Post|date=21 November 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Matt Mills makes first Nottingham Forest start since September - but no place for Zach Clough against former club Bolton Wanderers|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/football-news/matt-mills-makes-first-nottingham-902060|work=Nottingham Post|date=9 December 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> On 9 December 2017, he made his first start in two months, playing the full match in a 3–2 win over Bolton Wanderers.<ref>{{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest put down the paint brush and pick up a hammer to prove they can battle as well as beguile|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/sport-opinion/nottingham-forest-put-down-paint-906149|work=Nottingham Post|date=10 December 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> His return was brief, as he suffered a back injury and was substituted at half-time in a 2–1 defeat to Bristol City on 16 December 2017.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/december/bristol-city-vs-forest-match-report/|title=Bristol City 2–1 Nottingham Forest|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=16 December 2017|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130175210/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2017/december/bristol-city-vs-forest-match-report/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite news|title=Mark Warburton denies training ground bust-up with Jason Cummings - and says striker has bright future at Nottingham Forest|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/football-news/mark-warburton-insists-been-no-942166|work=Nottingham Post|date=19 December 2017|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> On 7 January 2018, he returned from injury as a late substitute in a 4–2 victory against Arsenal in the FA Cup third round.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2018/january/forest-vs-arsenal-match-report/|title=Nottingham Forest 4–2 Arsenal|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|date=7 January 2018|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130175607/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2018/january/forest-vs-arsenal-match-report/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref>

However, new manager Aitor Karanka subsequently informed Mills that he was free to leave the club, having been deemed surplus to requirements.<ref>{{cite news|title=New Nottingham Forest boss Aitor Karanka outlines January transfer plans|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/football-news/new-nottingham-forest-boss-aitor-1049455|work=Nottingham Post|date=12 January 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest reportedly willing to listen to offers for quartet before window closes|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/transfer-news/nottingham-forest-reportedly-willing-listen-1104015|work=Nottingham Post|date=23 January 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Aitor Karanka will not allow fringe players to leave Nottingham Forest - until new signings arrive|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/football-news/aitor-karanka-not-allow-fringe-1124882|work=Nottingham Post|date=26 January 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> On 31 January 2018, Mills left Nottingham Forest by mutual agreement after terminating his contract.<ref>{{cite web|title=Mills departs The Reds|url=https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2018/january/mills-departs-the-reds/|publisher=Nottingham Forest F.C.|access-date=20 March 2018|date=31 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180131234649/https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2018/january/mills-departs-the-reds/|archive-date=31 January 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> By the time of his departure, he had made 15 appearances in all competitions during the 2017–18 season.

===Barnsley=== On 31 January 2018, Mills signed for Barnsley on a short-term contract until the end of the season.<ref>{{cite web|title=Matt Mills Joins The Reds!|url=https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/january/mattmills/|publisher=Barnsley F.C.|access-date=4 March 2018|date=31 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180201000636/https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/january/mattmills/|archive-date=1 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

Three days later, he made his debut for the club, playing the full match in a 1–0 defeat against Queens Park Rangers.<ref>{{cite web|author1=Matt Davies|title=Elbow to the throat leaves former Nottingham Forest defender Matt Mills with bruised vocal chords for new club Barnsley|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/elbow-throat-leaves-former-nottingham-1164551|work=Nottingham Post|access-date=19 March 2018|date=4 February 2018}} {{cite web|url=https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/february/report-qpr/|title=REPORT: Queens Park Rangers 1-0 Barnsley|publisher=Barnsley F.C.|date=3 February 2018|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130184420/https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/february/report-qpr/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> After making two further starts, Mills was sidelined for a month with an ankle injury.<ref>{{cite news|title=Barnsley 1–2 Burton Albion|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43040000|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 February 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web|url=https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/february/report-burton/|title=MATCH REPORT: Barnsley 1-2 Burton Albion|publisher=Barnsley F.C.|date=20 February 2018|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130184416/https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/february/report-burton/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite news|title=Video: Barnsley urged to fulfil their potential by Dimas|url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/video-barnsley-urged-fulfil-their-potential-dimas-341784|work=The Yorkshire Post|date=26 February 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web|url=https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/march/injuryupdate/|title=Injury Update From José.|publisher=Barnsley F.C.|date=29 March 2018|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130185114/https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/march/injuryupdate/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> He returned to the starting line-up on 21 April 2018 against Leeds United, as Barnsley lost 2–1.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/april/report-leeds/|title=REPORT: Leeds United 2-1 Barnsley|publisher=Barnsley F.C.|date=21 April 2018|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130184413/https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2018/april/report-leeds/|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Following his return, Mills remained involved with the first team as the club were relegated from the EFL Championship at the end of the season.<ref>{{cite news|title=Nottingham Forest 3 Barnsley 0: Defeat pushes Reds closer to drop|url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/nottingham-forest-3-barnsley-0-defeat-pushes-reds-closer-drop-299263|work=The Yorkshire Post|date=24 April 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Jose Morais believes '˜what I am doing is best that can be done' as Barnsley face peril of drop|url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/jose-morais-believes-what-i-am-doing-best-can-be-done-barnsley-face-peril-drop-1762224|work=The Yorkshire Post|date=27 April 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Derby County 4–1 Barnsley|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43938859|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 May 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

Mills made four appearances for Barnsley during the 2017–18 season. He was subsequently released following the club's relegation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/44176345|title=Adam Hammill: Barnsley release winger after relegation to League One|date=18 May 2018|access-date=18 May 2018|publisher=BBC Sport}}</ref>

===Pune City=== On 21 August 2018, Mills joined Indian Super League club Pune City.<ref>{{cite web|author1=Barry Cooper|title=Ex-Nottingham Forest defender Matt Mills has a surprise new club|url=https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/transfer-news/ex-nottingham-forest-defender-matt-1920437|work=Nottingham Post|access-date=25 August 2018|date=21 August 2018}} {{cite news|title=ISL 2018-19: FC Pune City rope in English defender Matt Mills|url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/isl-2018-19-fc-pune-city-rope-in-defender-matt-mills/197u3gc0ojgkz1almkm8gflum4|publisher=Goal.com|date=21 August 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

He made his debut for the club in the opening match of the season, playing the full game in a 1–1 draw against Delhi Dynamos.<ref>{{cite news|title=ISL 2018-19: Diego Carlos' late goal rescues a point for Pune City against Delhi Dynamos|url=https://www.goal.com/en-cm/match/odisha-v-pune-city/report/g3mwsdgotu04kxjyvovqv23u|publisher=Goal.com|date=3 October 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> On 21 November 2018, he scored his first goal for Pune City in a 2–1 victory over Jamshedpur.<ref>{{cite news|title=ISL: FC Pune City get first win of season as Jamshedpur FC lose their first|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/football/story/isl-2018-19-matt-mills-fc-pune-city-vs-jamshedpur-fc-1393583-2018-11-21|work=India Today|date=21 November 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Mills captained the side on two occasions, against Kerala Blasters on 7 December 2018 and against Goa on 11 December 2018.<ref>{{cite news|title=ISL 2018-19: FC Pune City punish wasteful Kerala Blasters|url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/match/kerala-blasters-v-pune-city/qprs069npu6och9vqmhvfvxm|publisher=Goal.com|date=7 December 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=ISL: FC Pune City beat FC Goa 2-0 to continue good run|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/football/story/indian-super-league-isl-fc-pune-city-fc-goa-1407466-2018-12-11|work=India Today|date=11 December 2018|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, he later suffered a calf injury which ruled him out for several weeks.<ref>{{cite news|title=ISL 2018-19: Phil Brown - People will judge me on the style of football|url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/isl-2018-19-chennaiyin-fc-pune-city-phil-brown/1ubj4bl4ivzca1h67tml8nggmo|publisher=Goal.com|date=1 February 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=ISL: FC Pune City keen to extend purple|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-super-league/top-stories/isl-fc-pune-city-keen-to-extend-purple-patch/articleshow/67920064.cms|work=The Times of India|date=9 February 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> He returned to the first team on 20 February 2019, coming on as a 61st-minute substitute in a 1–1 draw with NorthEast United.<ref>{{cite news|title=ISL: FC Pune City rally to hold NorthEast United 1-1|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/football/story/isl-fc-pune-city-northeast-united-1-1-draw-1461093-2019-02-20|work=India Today|date=20 February 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

Having established himself in the centre-back position, Mills went on to make seventeen appearances in all competitions during his time with the club.

===Forest Green Rovers=== On 31 May 2019, League Two club Forest Green Rovers announced the signing of Mills as a player-coach ahead of the 2019–20 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/may-2019/signing-forest-green-land-experienced-defender-matt-mills|title=SIGNING: Forest Green land experienced defender Matt Mills|publisher=Forest Green Rovers F.C.|access-date=3 June 2019|date=31 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108000338/https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/may-2019/signing-forest-green-land-experienced-defender-matt-mills|archive-date=8 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Upon joining the club, he linked up with his younger brother, Joseph, and was assigned a squad number.<ref>{{cite news|title=Forest Green Rovers land former Manchester City, Leicester City and Nottingham Forest defender as player-coach|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/forest-green-rovers-land-former-2926592|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=31 May 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite web|url=https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/july-2019/news-2019-20-squad-numbers-announced|title=News: 2019/20 squad numbers announced|publisher=Forest Green Rovers F.C.|date=23 July 2019|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130192606/https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/july-2019/news-2019-20-squad-numbers-announced|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref>

Mills made his debut for Forest Green Rovers in the opening match of the season, playing the full game and helping the team keep a clean sheet in a 1–0 victory over Oldham Athletic.<ref>{{cite news |title=Forest Green Rovers 1–0 Oldham Athletic |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49135877 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=3 August 2019 |access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> He then started the following five matches before being sent off for a second bookable offence against Bradford City on 24 August 2019. He subsequently suffered a hamstring injury during a 2–0 defeat to Newport County on 31 August 2019.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mastermind Mark Cooper, impressive defence but lack of firepower: Talking points after Forest Green Rovers 1 Grimsby Town 0|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mastermind-mark-cooper-impressive-defence-3225254|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=19 August 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Should Forest Green Rovers persist with 3-4-3 against Bradford City? The strengths and weaknesses of the system|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/should-forest-green-rovers-persist-3241741|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=22 August 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Forest Green Rovers chief executive claims to be refused entry to Bradford City boardroom before watching 1-0 win with fans|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/forest-green-rovers-chief-executive-3249667|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=25 August 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Forest Green Rovers 0-2 Newport County: Goalkeeping coach Dan Connor's thoughts on the performance|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/forest-green-rovers-0-2-3271781|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=31 August 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Forest Green Rovers v Southampton Under-21s: Team news, odds, ticket info and more as Leasing.com Trophy gets underway|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/forest-green-rovers-v-southampton-3278829|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=3 September 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref>

After a spell on the sidelines, Mills returned to the starting line-up on 28 September 2019 against Salford City, helping the side keep a clean sheet in a 4–0 win.<ref>{{cite news|title=Forest Green Rovers v Stevenage FC: Former Nottingham Forest and Bolton Wanderers defender back from injury with ex-England boss in charge of visitors|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/forest-green-rovers-v-stevenage-3337740|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=19 September 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Salford City 0–4 Forest Green Rovers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49778371|publisher=BBC Sport|date=28 September 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> However, his comeback was short-lived, as he sustained another hamstring injury just ten minutes into the match against Crawley Town on 5 October 2019 and was substituted; Forest Green won the game 3–1.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/october-2019/match-report-forest-green-rovers-3-crawley-1|title=MATCH REPORT: Forest Green Rovers 3 Crawley 1|publisher=Forest Green Rovers F.C.|date=5 October 2019|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130201720/https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/october-2019/match-report-forest-green-rovers-3-crawley-1|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}} {{cite news|title=Exeter City v Forest Green Rovers: Injury updates, odds, ticket info and more ahead of top of table clash|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/exeter-city-v-forest-green-3419384|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=11 October 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> On 12 November 2019, he returned to the starting line-up and captained the team in a 6–0 defeat to Walsall.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/november-2019/match-report-walsall-6-forest-green-rovers-0-leasing.com-trophy|title=MATCH REPORT: Walsall 6 Forest Green Rovers 0 (Leasing.com Trophy)|publisher=Forest Green Rovers F.C.|date=12 November 2019|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130202617/https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/november-2019/match-report-walsall-6-forest-green-rovers-0-leasing.com-trophy|archive-date=30 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref>

Following this, he regained his place in the first team, featuring regularly at centre-back,<ref>{{cite news|title=Forest Green Rovers lacking an impact substitution but still in strong position despite defeat to Plymouth Argyle|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/forest-green-rovers-lacking-impact-3550285|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=18 November 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Forest Green Rovers player ratings - former Birmingham City youngster has best game for club but captain unusually below par|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/forest-green-rovers-player-ratings-3582398|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=27 November 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}} {{cite news|title=Forest Green Rovers verdict - Bristol City loanee's big impact and never-say-die attitude|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/forest-green-rovers-verdict-bristol-3672990|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=23 December 2019|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> but later lost his spot and was relegated to the substitutes' bench.<ref>{{cite news|title=Forest Green Rovers verdict: Missing identity, bottom of table form and injury woes|url=https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/forest-green-rovers-verdict-missing-3839008|publisher=Gloucestershire Echo|date=12 February 2020|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> The season ultimately came to a premature end due to the COVID-19 pandemic.<ref>{{cite news|title=League One & League Two clubs vote to end seasons early|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/52705124|work=BBC Sport|date=9 June 2020|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> At the conclusion of the 2019–20 season, Mills had made 21 appearances in all competitions.

Mills was released by Forest Green Rovers upon the expiry of his contract.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/june-2020/news-forest-green-rovers-confirm-player-releases|title=News {{!}} Forest Green Rovers confirm player release|work=fgr.co.uk|publisher=Forest Green Rovers F.C.|date=15 June 2020|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615181515/https://www.fgr.co.uk/news/june-2020/news-forest-green-rovers-confirm-player-releases|archive-date=15 June 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> He subsequently announced his retirement from professional football in July 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/transfer-news/former-coventry-city-loanee-announces-18593579|title=Former City loanee announces retirement with 'emotional' message|first=Sarah|last=Clapson|date=14 July 2020|website=CoventryLive}}</ref>

==International career== Mills was called up to the England under-19 squad and helped the side qualify for the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in March 2005.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mills helps England secure European finals place|url=http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5355860.MILLS_HELPS_ENGLAND_SECURE_EUROPEAN_FINALS_PLACE/|publisher=Bournemouth Echo|date=30 March 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919111241/http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5355860.MILLS_HELPS_ENGLAND_SECURE_EUROPEAN_FINALS_PLACE/|archive-date=19 September 2016}}</ref> He played an important role in helping the team reach the final, where they were defeated by France.<ref>{{cite news|title=Saints pair in Euro final|url=http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5636095.Saints_pair_in_Euro_final/|publisher=Daily Echo|date=27 July 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907160620/http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/5636095.Saints_pair_in_Euro_final/|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> Between 2004 and 2005, Mills made a total of eight appearances at under-19 level for England.<ref>{{cite web|title=England's matches - the under-19's|url=http://www.englandfootballonline.com/MatchRsl/MatchRslTmU19pg1.html|publisher=England Football Online|access-date=20 March 2018}}</ref>

==Personal life== Born in Swindon, England, Mills and his family lived just ten minutes from the town's County Ground until he left at the age of 14.<ref name="MMBE2">{{cite news|title=Mills on familiar territory|url=http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5356616.MILLS_ON_FAMILIAR_TERRITORY/|publisher=Bournemouth Echo|date=4 March 2005|access-date=7 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907155855/http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/5356616.MILLS_ON_FAMILIAR_TERRITORY/|archive-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> He was educated at Bradon Forest Secondary School in Purton, near Swindon.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rose |first=Gary |date=27 January 2012 |title=Mills will do Town no favours |url=https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/9496459.mills-will-do-town-no-favours/ |access-date=2023-01-21 |website=Swindon Advertiser |language=en}}</ref>

Mills' youngest brother, Joseph, was also a trainee at Southampton and later played for Forest Green Rovers, where he was joined by Matt in May 2019.<ref>{{cite web|author1=Adrian Kajumba|title=Mills 'gutted' Saints revolution came too late for him|url=http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/saints/news/4047896.Mills__gutted__Saints_revolution_came_too_late_for_him/|publisher=Daily Echo|access-date=21 March 2018|date=15 January 2009}}</ref> His other brothers, Jon-Paul and Jamie, have both played for Hellenic Football League side Witney United.<ref>{{cite web|author1=Damien Bellemore|title=Family ties draw defender to Perth|url=https://www.myfootball.com.au/news/family-ties-draw-defender-perth|publisher=My Football|access-date=21 March 2018|date=23 August 2016}}</ref>

Mills was previously in a relationship with former ''Hollyoaks'' and ''Prisoners' Wives'' actress Emma Rigby.<ref>{{cite web|title=Reading's Matthew mills scores another winner with actress Emma Rigby!|url=http://www.talksport.co.uk/magazine/wag-week/2011-03-02/wag-week-readings-matthew-mills-scores-another-winner-actress-emma-rigby|access-date=2 March 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110305044836/http://www.talksport.co.uk/magazine/wag-week/2011-03-02/wag-week-readings-matthew-mills-scores-another-winner-actress-emma-rigby|archive-date=5 March 2011}}</ref> In 2014, he married Jade Elliott, daughter of former Leicester City and Scotland defender Matt Elliott. The couple have two daughters, Lyla and Aria.<ref name="MMBN1"/>

==Career statistics== {{updated|match played 7 March 2020}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |+ Appearances and goals by club, season and competition |- !rowspan="2"|Club !rowspan="2"|Season !colspan="3"|League !colspan="2"|National cup !colspan="2"|League cup !colspan="2"|Other !colspan="2"|Total |- !Division!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals |- |rowspan="4"|Southampton |2003–04 |Premier League||0||0||0||0||0||0||0||0||0||0 |- |2004–05<ref name=sb0405>{{soccerbase season|38732|2004|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Premier League||0||0||0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|—||0||0 |- |2005–06<ref name=sb0506>{{soccerbase season|38732|2005|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> ||Championship||4||0||0||0||2||0||colspan="2"|—||6||0 |- !colspan="2"|Total!!4!!0!!0!!0!!2!!0!!0!!0!!6!!0 |- |Coventry City (loan) |2004–05<ref name=sb0405/> |Championship||4||0||0||0||1||0||colspan="2"|—||5||0 |- |AFC Bournemouth (loan) |2004–05<ref name=sb0405/> |League One||12||3||0||0||0||0||0||0||12||3 |- |rowspan="4"|Manchester City |2005–06<ref name="sb0506"/> |Premier League||1||0||0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|—||1||0 |- |2006–07<ref name=sb0607>{{soccerbase season|38732|2006|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Premier League||1||0||0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|—||1||0 |- |2007–08<ref name=sb0708>{{soccerbase season|38732|2007|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Premier League||0||0||0||0||2||0||colspan="2"|—||0||0 |- !colspan="2"|Total!!2!!0!!0!!0!!0!!0!!colspan="2"|—!!2!!0 |- |Colchester United (loan) |2006–07<ref name=sb0607/> |Championship||9||0||0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|—||9||0 |- |Doncaster Rovers (loan) |2007–08<ref name=sb0708/> |League One||34||3||0||0||1||0||6<ref group=lower-alpha>Three appearances in Football League Trophy, three in Football League play-offs</ref>||0||41||3 |- |rowspan="2"|Doncaster Rovers |2008–09<ref name=sb0809>{{soccerbase season|38732|2008|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||41||0||4||0||0||0||colspan="2"|—||45||0 |- !colspan="2"|Total !75||3||4||0||1||0||6||0||86||3 |- |rowspan="3"|Reading |2009–10<ref name=sb0910>{{soccerbase season|38732|2009|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||23||2||6||0||1||0||colspan="2"|—||30||2 |- |2010–11<ref name=sb1011>{{soccerbase season|38732|2010|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||38||2||3||1||1||2||3<ref group=lower-alpha>Appearances in Football League play-offs</ref>||1||45||6 |- !colspan="2"|Total!!61!!4!!9!!1!!2!!2!!3!!1!!75!!8 |- |Leicester City |2011–12<ref name=sb1112>{{soccerbase season|38732|2011|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||25||1||3||0||3||0||colspan="2"|—||31||1 |- |rowspan="4"|Bolton Wanderers |2012–13<ref name=sb1213>{{soccerbase season|38732|2012|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||18||1||0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|—||18||1 |- |2013–14<ref name=sb1314>{{soccerbase season|38732|2013|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||32||1||2||0||1||0||colspan="2"|—||35||1 |- |2014–15<ref name=sb1415>{{soccerbase season|38732|2014|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||37||4||2||0||2||1||colspan="2"|—||41||5 |- !colspan="2"|Total!!87!!6!!4!!0!!3!!1!!colspan="2"|—!!94!!7 |- |rowspan="4"|Nottingham Forest |2015–16<ref name=sb1516>{{soccerbase season|38732|2015|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||42||5||0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|—||42||5 |- |2016–17<ref name=sb1617>{{soccerbase season|38732|2016|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||27||1||0||0||3||0||colspan="2"|—||30||1 |- |2017–18<ref name=sb1718>{{soccerbase season|38732|2017|access-date=19 March 2018}}</ref> |Championship||13||0||1||0||1||0||colspan="2"|—||15||0 |- !colspan="2"|Total!!82!!6!!1!!0!!4!!0!!colspan="2"|—!!87!!6 |- |Barnsley |2017–18<ref name=sb1718/> |Championship||4||0||0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|—||4||0 |- |Pune City |2018–19<ref name="SW">{{cite web |title=M. Mills |url=https://int.soccerway.com/players/matthew-mills/2851/ |publisher=Soccerway |access-date=4 October 2018}}</ref> |Indian Super League||15||1||0||0||colspan="2"|—||colspan="2"|—||15||1 |- |Forest Green Rovers |2019–20<ref name=sb1920>{{soccerbase season|38732|2019|access-date=23 April 2021}}</ref> |League Two||19||0||1||0||0||0||1<ref group=lower-alpha>Appearances in EFL Trophy</ref>||0||21||0 |- !colspan="3"|Career total!!399!!24!!22!!1!!16!!3!!10!!1!!447!!29 |}

==Honours== '''Doncaster Rovers''' *Football League One play-offs: 2008<ref name=BBC7418498>{{cite news|last1=Lewis|first1=Aimee|title=Doncaster 1 Leeds 0|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/7418498.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=11 July 2016|date=25 May 2008}}</ref>

'''Individual''' *Doncaster Rovers Player of the Year 2008–09<ref name="POTY"/>

==References== {{Reflist}}

==External links== {{Commons category}} *[https://web.archive.org/web/20110806194747/http://www.readingfc.co.uk/page/ProfilesDetail/0,,10306~30603,00.html Matthew Mills profile] at Reading F.C. *{{Soccerbase}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mills, Matt}} Category:1986 births Category:Living people Category:Footballers from Swindon Category:English men's footballers Category:England men's youth international footballers Category:Men's association football defenders Category:Southampton F.C. players Category:Coventry City F.C. players Category:AFC Bournemouth players Category:Manchester City F.C. players Category:Colchester United F.C. players Category:Doncaster Rovers F.C. players Category:Reading F.C. players Category:Leicester City F.C. players Category:Bolton Wanderers F.C. players Category:Nottingham Forest F.C. players Category:Barnsley F.C. players Category:Forest Green Rovers F.C. players Category:English Football League players Category:Indian Super League players Category:FC Pune City players Category:English football coaches Category:Forest Green Rovers F.C. non-playing staff Category:English expatriate men's footballers Category:Expatriate men's footballers in India Category:English expatriate sportspeople in India Category:Premier League players Category:21st-century English sportsmen