James Milner playing for Liverpool
James Milner playing for Liverpool
James Milner has found a new way to test his fitness since leaving the Premier League, completing his first marathon at the age of 40.
The former Liverpool midfielder took part in the TCS New York City Marathon on Sunday, November 1, finishing in 3:09:04 with an average pace of seven minutes and 13 seconds per mile.
He joined around 60,000 runners on the five-borough course, which was celebrating its 50th anniversary. Milner ran in support of his own charity, the James Milner Foundation.
Before the race, he said his aim was to enjoy the experience and finish.
The achievement adds to a career built on remarkable stamina and consistency. Milner made his senior debut for Leeds United on November 10, 2002, aged 16, before going on to represent Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton.
He joined Liverpool on a free transfer from Manchester City in the summer of 2015 and was appointed vice-captain.
During his eight seasons at Anfield, Milner made 332 appearances, scored 26 goals and helped the Reds win six major honours, including the 2019 Champions League and the 2020 Premier League title.
He also established himself as a dependable penalty taker, converting 19 of the 21 spot-kicks he took for the club.
He moved ahead of Gareth Barry’s previous record of 653 appearances on February 21, when he started for Brighton against Brentford to make his 654th appearance.
However, Milner is now set for another appearance in front of the Anfield faithful.
The game will take place at Anfield at 3pm on Saturday, March 27, 2027, with Milner the first player confirmed for the Liverpool side.
The match will raise funds for the LFC Foundation and Forever Reds, the club’s official former players’ association.
Speaking about his return, Milner said: “I’m thrilled to have the chance to pull on the red shirt again and step back out at Anfield. It’s a special place, and playing there in front of the supporters is a feeling like no other.”
He added: “What makes the Legends match so special is that it’s about more than football. It’s a chance to give something back to the fans while supporting the work of the LFC Foundation. I’m delighted to be the first to sign up and can’t wait to be part of it.”
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