Negredo ready to put Manchester City nightmare behind him

Valencia striker Alvaro Negredo says he has put his Manchester City nightmare behind him as he looks continue to revitalise his career in Spain.

The Spain international fired Valencia ahead after four minutes against Monaco, a goal the proved crucial as Nuno Espirito Santo's side qualified for the group stages with a 4-3 aggregate win – despite losing 2-1 on the night.

Negredo joined Man City in 2013 in a deal worth around £20 million but failed to maintain an impressive start to life in England and subsequently spent last season on loan at Mestalla before making his stay permanent.

The striker netted five league goals for Los Che last term and insists he is completely over his poor spell in the Premier League.

"My suffering is in the past. I have to enjoy this and continue working hard. I put in a good performance on Saturday but I was unlucky not to score. I had my reward in the Champions League," he told AS.

"The coach told me I was playing on Tuesday.

"I wasn't sure, I knew I might start, and in the end he told me and I tried to respond in the best way.

"I want to dedicate the goal to my family, my friends, the people who have been with me for better or worse."

Valencia's progression means Spain have a record five teams in the Champions League group stage.

They join Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Europa League champions Sevilla in Thursday's draw.