 His debut came one day after joining, starting County's 4–4 home draw with Wigan Athletic on the opening day of the 1987–88 Third Division.He first scored for County with their opening goal in a 2–1 away win over Chester City on 3 October 1987.Mills played in all of County's matches in 1987–88, making 60 appearances and scoring 5 goals, and was named the club's Player of the Year.