Former England international James Milner has announced his retirement after spending the last three seasons at Brighton.
Ex-Liverpool and Manchester City footballer James Milner has announced his retirement at 40, the former England international has spent the last three seasons at Brighton. After starting his career with Leeds, James Milner went on to play for Manchester City and Liverpool where he helped the team win the Champions League back in 2019.
James Milner has shared a statement about his retirement on Instagram and wrote: “After 24 seasons in the @premierleague, it feels like the right time to bring an end to my playing career. From making my debut for @leedsunited, 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 @officialbhafc qualifying for Europe for the second time in their history at the age of 40.
“To have gone on to represent @nufc, @astonvilla, @mancity, @liverpoolfc and @officialbhafc — and not forgetting a memorable month at @officialstfc — has been an incredible privilege. Every club has played a huge role in my life and career, and I want to thank everyone involved — the owners, staff, coaches, teammates and supporters who welcomed me and helped me along the way.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some unforgettable moments, from fighting for survival to winning trophies, playing in Europe, and representing my country, @england, at two European Championships and two World Cups. But more than anything, it’s the people and friendships I’ve made throughout the game that I’ll cherish forever.
Ex-Liverpool and Manchester City star James Milner announces retirement, is he married, does he have kids? Photo: AFP via Getty Imagesplaceholder image
Ex-Liverpool and Manchester City star James Milner announces retirement, is he married, does he have kids? Photo: AFP via Getty Images | AFP via Getty Images
“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.
“To my family, thank you for every sacrifice, every mile travelled and every moment of encouragement. None of this would have been possible without you.
“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.”
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Adam Lallana said: “Congratulations my mate ❤️💙 achieved it all and more!! Enjoy a rest for a day or so 😆.” The Instagram account for the England football team wrote: “Congratulations on a wonderful career ❤️.”
Danny Welbeck wrote: “What a career mate 👏🏿
“Pleasure to share a dressing room with you ❤️,” whilst Frank Lampard said: “Huge congratulations mate. What an incredible career 👏👏 .”
James Milner is married to his childhood sweetheart, hair stylist and makeup artist Amy Fletcher, the couple share two children together: a daughter and a son.
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