The 40-year-old made his Leeds United debut 24 years ago.
Former Leeds United youngster turned Premier League legend James Milner has confirmed his retirement from professional football.
Milner was born in Wortley and came through the Leeds ranks as a child before making his senior debut, aged 16, in November 2002. A winger at the time, he spent two years in the first-team picture at Elland Road before joining Newcastle United following his boyhood club’s relegation.
A mammoth 24 year career has seen Milner play for Leeds, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton - he also spent a brief time on loan at Second Division Swindon Town. He won three Premier League titles and a Champions League alongside multiple domestic cups before becoming the the Premier League’s all-time record appearance-maker this season, with 658 appearances for the now 40-year-old.
In a statement on Instagram, Milner 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.
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“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.
“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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