Leeds United academy graduate James Milner needs just 16 more outings to become the all-time record appearance maker in the Premier League and he looks set to be given the chance to do that.
The 39-year-old is currently with Brighton and Hove Albion but is out of contract at the end of the season. He has seen both of his last two campaigns disrupted by injury with the midfielder being on the sidelines since August after undergoing hamstring surgery.
However, The Athletic reports that discussions are taking place about extending his stay at the Amex Stadium. It is said that the Seagulls are keen to continue using the midfielder's wealth of experience to their advantage, although it is not clear what type of role Milner will take on whether it’s as a player, a coach or in a hybrid role.
If Milner does continue playing, then it, of course, gives him a chance to break the Premier League appearance record set by Gareth Barry. It currently stands at 653 matches, with Milner sitting on 637.
An extended contract that involves a playing role would give Milner the chance to break the record in the best possible way. However a lot of stars would need to align for that to happen.
Leeds’ promotion back to the Premier League means that they will come up against Brighton some time in the upcoming season. If the fixture list works out and Milner makes a successful return to fitness, then there is a chance, however small it may be, that the record could be broken at Elland Road, where the midfielder started his career.
Milner came up through the academy at Elland Road, making his debut for the club in 2002. He played a total of 54 times for the Whites, scoring give goals, before moving to Newcastle in 2004 for a fee of around £5 million.
He has since played for Aston Villa. Manchester City and Liverpool before moving to Brighton on a free transfer in the summer of 2023.
"It was horrible, it was probably one of the worst moments of my career," Milner said of Leeds' relegation in 2004 which resulted in his subsequent departure.
"Obviously, the team you’ve been supporting all your life, the first team you played for. There was a lot of stuff going on at the time - off field problems, financial problems.
"As a young player you have to grow up quick, I was well protected by the club and the senior players at the time.
"The support (was) incredible. It's a special club.
"I think I’m biased, but I think most people will agree with me that it’s a club that definitely belongs in the Premier League."
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