James Milner is just one week away from an incredible Premier League milestone. The Liverpool midfielder is achieving greatness.
In one week’s time, James Milner will mark 20 years as a Premier League player. The 36-year-old made his debut for Leeds United as a 16-year-old on November 10th 2002, playing six minutes against West Ham United.
Milner’s start to life in the Premier League went remarkably well, too. That debut made him the second-youngster player in the competition, and he became the outright youngest goalscorer the following month, breaking Wayne Rooney’s record.
His 20-year career has since seen Milner play for Newcastle United, Aston Vill, Manchester City and Liverpool. The Reds are now the longest he’s ever spent with one team, too, having joined in 2015 and made over 200 Premier League appearances.
James Milner nears Premier League milestone
This is an unbelievable achievement from Milner, who has spent his entire career in the top flight – save for one month on loan at Swindon Town. The fact he’s still playing at the elite level after 20 years is remarkable.
Just this week, Milner captained Liverpool in the Champions League against Europe’s in-form side. He played well, too, and has put in some fantastic performances this season. His display against City stands out and Michael Owen feels he’s playing his best football in years.
The BBC’s Garth Crooks recently called Milner an ‘exceptional professional’ and that about sums it up. He’s taken incredible care of himself, remained professional, and allowed his career to extend well into his 30s.
Rooney, for instance, debuted two months before Milner but ceased playing top-flight football over four years ago. The Liverpool midfielder could well extend his career into next season, though.
There’s a very good chance Milner will. He’s out of contract in 2023 but at this rate, Liverpool will offer him a new one. 20 years and counting.
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