Realising that this has been a transitional season, he says: "It started off a bit indifferent and there was a new gaffer coming in - but we have shown we stick together and have progressed.
"I think we have shut a few people up, the critics and stuff, in a way, which is brilliant. Everyone is behind the gaffer and we are looking forward to the run-in, the last few games."
He says the criticism of Glenn Roeder's appointment at the start of the season was unjust - and out of touch with the players' feelings.
"We have been behind him from the start," says Michael, "and even before he got the job a few of the boys were saying how good it would be if he did get it.
"We are fully behind him, and the results after Christmas have shown that we have got ourselves out of that dogfight."
Michael says there is still a lot to play for, and adds: "Hopefully we are not in that comfort zone - we need to push on and get in that top seven or eight."
Michael says that Glenn has been a big influence in him making the England squad this season, acknowledging that his own experience coaching England has helped.
"He passes on a lot of information and advice to me as well as the senior pros," says Michael, "and it has been brilliant for me.
"It has been a big season for me and I'm just trying to learn all the time - and hopefully progress for next season."