James Milner, the seasoned 40-year-old midfielder, is poised to become the all-time leader in Premier League appearances, as he currently shares the record of 653 matches with Gareth Barry. Having come off the bench for Brighton against Aston Villa, Milner is just one appearance away from surpassing the former England international.
Milner’s impact on the Premier League is remarkable. Not only is he tenth on the all-time assists list with 90, but he has also achieved significant milestones with multiple clubs throughout his career. In fact, he’s played 48 Premier League matches against Chelsea alone, showcasing his longevity and resilience in one of the world’s most challenging leagues. Notably, his discipline stands out; he has only been sent off three times in his extensive career.
The Leeds United academy graduate began his senior career in 2002, just shy of his 17th birthday, and has since represented six Premier League clubs—Liverpool, Manchester City, Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Leeds United, and Brighton. Over his illustrious career, Milner has amassed 56 goals and 90 assists in league play.
Milner’s club appearances are as follows:
– Liverpool: 230
– Manchester City: 147
– Aston Villa: 100
– Newcastle United: 94
– Leeds United: 48
– Brighton: 34
In terms of silverware, Milner has an impressive collection, including three Premier League titles (two with Manchester City and one with Liverpool), and various cup victories including the FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Champions League, and more.
This season, Milner has played in 15 Premier League matches for Brighton, contributing significantly despite missing some games due to injury. With important fixtures coming up against Brentford, Nottingham Forest, and Arsenal, the milestone of overtaking Barry could happen in the near future.
Milner’s career reflects not only individual achievement but also the spirit of perseverance and dedication in football. As he approaches this historic moment, his journey serves as an inspiration to current and aspiring players alike, reminding them that with hard work and tenacity, remarkable milestones can be achieved even late in one’s career.