From a humble £70-a-week apprentice to the precipice of a Premier League appearance record – James Milner's journey is nothing short of extraordinary!
It’s a career that has spanned over two decades, graced six different top-flight clubs, and seen him rack up an astonishing 652 Premier League appearances, earn 61 caps for England, and lift a remarkable collection of trophies including three Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the coveted Champions League. But amidst this stellar career, there have been moments that add a touch of unique character, like the time former Premier League referee Jon Moss, who was once his primary school teacher, sent him off!
"People joke that I only did it because he didn't do his homework," Moss chuckles, recalling the incident in 2019 when Milner, then playing for Liverpool, was dismissed. Moss, who had transitioned from teaching to refereeing, added, "He said I couldn't wait to get my card out." It's a story they can both laugh about now, with Moss quipping, "People say I'm the only teacher to send off one of his pupils in a Premier League game."
But here's where it gets truly remarkable: On Sunday, Milner, now 40, is set to draw level with Gareth Barry's record of 653 Premier League appearances. This incredible milestone comes a staggering 8,491 days after he first stepped onto the pitch for his hometown club, Leeds United, shortly after leaving school in 2002. Imagine that – a career that began as a young lad on a modest apprenticeship is now on the verge of etching his name in the history books!
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler emphasizes Milner's enduring impact: "He is a driver of this winning mentality and I think it's very important to have these kind of players in the squad. They know how to win, they know what it needs to win, how you need to prepare a game, how you react in bad phases like on bad runs we have at the moment." This sentiment is echoed by former Newcastle teammate Alan Shearer, who famously described Milner as a "manager's dream" and a "model professional." Shearer added, "You would do well if you had him in your squad because you knew exactly what you were going to get."
Milner's career at Manchester City was equally impactful. He arrived seeking a challenge and ended up playing a pivotal role in their resurgence, contributing to two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup, and a Community Shield. He proved to be an incredibly versatile player, adapting to various roles, even a stint as a lone striker, and was highly respected in the dressing room.
Former City defender Micah Richards shares a fond memory: "We won the Premier League together in 2012 but there were times that season when things were not going well. He was one of the people who kept everyone going." Richards also humorously recalls the "Boring James Milner" social media phenomenon, a parody account that playfully mocked Milner's perceived mundane habits. "Everyone thought I was behind it," Richards admits, recounting how Milner would jokingly accuse him. "I swear, Millie, it's not me!" he'd protest, eventually even contacting the anonymous creator to clear his name.
And this is the part most people miss: While Milner's name might not always be the first to be mentioned among the all-time Premier League greats, Micah Richards firmly believes he belongs there. "Milner's name never really is mentioned as one of the greats, but he is, without a doubt," he states.
Paul Robinson, who was in goal the night Milner made his debut for Leeds in 2002, highlights the sheer dedication required to maintain such a high level for so long. "It's everything you do, it's how you walk around at home, it's what shoes you wear, it's how you sleep, it's what pillows you sleep on, it's what you eat, it's what you put in your body," Robinson explains. "And for him to have evolved the way that the game's evolved as well, it's huge credit to himself as a person, not just a footballer, but as a person."
Now, with his contract nearing its end and having celebrated his 40th birthday, Milner approaches each game with a profound appreciation for the moment, remembering advice from veteran goalkeeper Nigel Martyn years ago: "Enjoy it while you can because it goes so fast." He reflects, "And here we are in the blink of an eye – and I'm where he was."
So, what do you think? Does James Milner's incredible longevity and consistent performance place him firmly in the pantheon of Premier League legends? Or is there a debate to be had about what truly defines a 'great' player? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
