James Milner has become indispensable to this Liverpool side in recent years. He has proved vital due to his versatility, fitness and determination. Having a player of his experience around such a young squad has yielded results in the form of a Champions League trophy. With Milner out of contract next year and turning 34 next January, now is as good a time as any to think of a replacement for the irreplaceable. Who can step into Milner’s shoes?
Who is the ideal Milner replacement? (Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Emre Can
The German midfielder left the club in a shroud of controversy in 2018. He ran down his contract in order to secure a free transfer to Italian giants Juventus. He has since found himself frozen out this season and left out of the club’s Champions League squad. Emre would offer the versatility that Milner provides. Whilst at Liverpool, Can played across the defence as well in advanced and sitting midfield roles. He was invaluable when we were faced with an injury pile up. Should we take him back to plug a few gaps at once?
Sergi Roberto
An unrealistic target but one that fits the mould. Roberto is versatile and terrific with the ball at his feet. He came through Barcelona’s youth team after joining them aged 17. The Spanish international can play near enough anywhere, he has played for Barcelona at fullback, on the wing and in central midfield. He would cost a pretty penny but he would replace Milner’s versatility.
Lewis Cook
The 22 year old Bournemouth midfielder could be a solid replacement for a few reasons. He would be a relatively cheap option in comparison to Roberto and Can, much like Milner. He also has bags of energy. Cook is a dogged and determined midfielder that never stops running, he also offers more offensively than Milner. The only drawback is his lack of experience in defence in comparison to the other options.