Image Credits: Imago Images
Former Liverpool man James Milner has officially announced his retirement.
Milner bows out as the Premier League’s all‑time appearance record holder, having surpassed Gareth Barry after clocking up well over 650 games in the competition.
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He was the engine room of Jurgen Klopp’s great side, winning the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League title in 2020. He was never the headline act, but ask any Liverpool fan and they’ll tell you: Milner was always there when it mattered.
His move to Brighton at 37 was supposed to be a graceful wind-down. Instead, he broke the all-time appearance record, started Premier League games at 40, and forced his way into the conversation as one of football’s all-time physical marvels.
Taking to Instagram, the 40-year-old wrote:
“After 24 seasons in the Premier League, it feels like the right time to bring an end to my playing career. From making my debut for Leeds United who I supported growing up, at the age of 16 and becoming the Premier League’s youngest scorer, I could never have dreamed of the journey I’ve been on, right through to not being able to lift my foot last year and then coming back to be part of Brighton qualifying for Europe for the second time in their history at the age of 40.”
“To have gone on to represent Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool FC and Brighton — and not forgetting a memorable month at Swindon Town — has been an incredible privilege.”
He added:
“To the fans, thank you. To those who supported me every step of the way, your encouragement meant more than you’ll ever know. And to those who gave me grief along the way, thank you too — you all played your part in making the journey memorable and helping shape me as a player and person.”
“I leave the game with immense pride, gratitude and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Football has given me far more than I could ever have imagined, and I will always be thankful for the opportunities it provided.”
“Thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey.”