TOMMY MILLER last night revealed the extent of his personal frustration during Roy Keane's title-winning first year in charge at Sunderland by claiming it was the worst season of his career.

Miller, Kenny Cunningham, Kevin Smith and William Mocquet have all been told they are not required at the Stadium of Light next season, with the former Ipswich and Hartlepool player attracting interest from a number of Championship clubs.

Despite having no regrets about returning to his native North-East two years ago, the 28-year-old could not hide his disappointment at failing to figure in Keane's plans over the last nine months.

Miller's only appearance under the Irishman was as a substitute at Barnsley on March 10 - the same day three regular members of the match day squad were omitted for being late for the team coach.

That game aside, the attacking midfielder was rarely considered by Keane after his appointment at the end of August.

Up to that point Miller had figured in the opening three league games under Niall Quinn.

And, reflecting on what has been a campaign largely wasted on the sidelines with the exception of a six-week loan at Preston, he is now relieved his torture is over.

"It wasn't a shock and although the club have now announced it I have known for a couple of weeks," said Miller.

"It's been the worst season of my career.

"From the club's point of view it was fantastic, and I'm delighted for the club and for all of the players because they deserve it. But for me it was a nightmare."

When Miller was snapped up on a free transfer by Mick McCarthy in the summer of 2005 before Sunderland's return to the Premiership, he regarded the switch as a dream move.

Back to his North-East roots, where he was brought up in Shotton Colliery as a Sunderland fan, he could not believe his luck.

However, after the depressing relegation things failed to improve for Miller with Bob Murray relinquishing ownership to the Quinn-led Drumaville Consortium.

And, although Miller retains the utmost respect for Keane the manager and legendary midfielder, he would love to have been given an opportunity under the former Manchester United captain.

"I am disappointed he did not give me a chance," said Miller, who became one of the most prolific goalscoring midfielders in the Football League during four years at Ipswich. "I know that when new managers come into a job they have their own ideas but I still feel I should have been given a fair crack of the whip.

"I have proven myself at Championship level and I would have thought he would have come in and known I could play at that level. I didn't get that chance though.

"There's no hard feelings and when he got me into his office to explain how promotion had basically sealed my fate I was expecting that.

"Even before he arrived things didn't really work out. I have played left-wing, left-midfield, right-midfield and defensive midfield.

"Very rarely did I play as the more attacking midfielder. But these things happen."

Miller will remain a follower of Sunderland and is hoping Keane's revolution brings glory to Wearside.

And, having experienced Keane's managerial style at close quarters, there is no doubt in Miller's mind the Black Cats are destined for a bright future.

"Roy Keane has brought extreme professionalism to the club and that's exactly what was required," said Miller. "He has ensured that every minor detail is fine tuned to ensure the preparation is spot on for all of the players.

"As soon as the new chairman and the new backers came to the club last summer there was a more positive feeling. To have someone like Roy Keane arrive was just incredible. He gained instant respect.

"The Premiership will be a different thing all together next season and it's going to be exciting times for Sunderland.

"The chairman is just going to let Roy Keane do what he likes in terms of personnel and the whole place will change massively.

"They are determined to make Sunderland big time, a Premiership force, and I'm sure with their focus they will probably deliver it."

Academy products Robbie Weir, David Dowson and Jamie Chandler have all been offered professional terms, while Chris Backhouse, Lee Chapman and Richard Smith have been released.