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Tom Hamilton
Multiple Authors
Jürgen Klopp conveyed to ESPN his belief that James Milner’s accomplishment of surpassing the Premier League appearance benchmark is probably an unbreakable feat, emphasizing that Liverpool’s successes during their tenure were fundamentally dependent on Milner.
On February 11, Milner drew level with Gareth Barry’s 653 Premier League outings upon his substitute appearance for Brighton facing Aston Villa, proceeding to eclipse this milestone during the current weekend. Milner’s inaugural Premier League match occurred in November 2002 at the age of 16 for Leeds United, subsequently featuring in the premier division for Newcastle United, Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Brighton.
The forty-year-old athlete was selected to Brighton’s initial lineup for their Saturday encounter against Brentford, marking his record-setting 654th Premier League participation.
“It’s truly astonishing,” Klopp communicated to ESPN. “Contributing to something that stands the test of time is immensely significant. Attaining such a high count of games played is akin to a lunar landing. Perhaps it’s a singular occurrence?”
Throughout these 654 matches, Milner accumulated numerous trophies, in addition to earning 61 international caps for England.
While at Manchester City, he played a crucial role in securing Premier League championships in 2012 and 2014, coupled with triumphs in the 2011 FA Cup and 2014 League Cup. Milner moved to Liverpool in June 2015, preceding Klopp’s arrival in October of the same year. Klopp oversaw Milner until his move to Brighton in June 2023, yet during their shared time, Milner was instrumental in Liverpool’s victories in the 2020 Premier League, 2022 FA Cup, 2022 League Cup, and the 2019 Champions League.
Klopp, currently holding the position of Red Bull’s Global Head of Soccer, characterized Milner as “likely the most disciplined, resolute, and professional football athlete I’ve had the privilege to coach.”
He further stated: “Reaching such a pinnacle demands extraordinary resolve. Early in our professional connection, it became instantly apparent that I needed to secure his allegiance, given his widespread influence.”
During matches, Klopp deployed Milner in various roles, dedicating one season to left-back duties in 2016-17. Milner commenced his professional journey as a winger for Leeds, ultimately covering every outfield role throughout his extensive 24-year Premier League tenure.
“Reflecting on James, individuals would likely describe him as an honorable, elite professional,” Klopp remarked. “However, I can attest, his capabilities were boundless.”
“If one’s role is rigidly defined, it becomes evident over time that every club will likely feature another player in that same spot who is equally or more skilled. They will be younger, quicker, more robust, superior in aerial contests. Thus, versatility across multiple positions extends one’s career longevity.”
“Yet, his most significant attribute is his comprehensive array of abilities. He possesses every conceivable talent, often displaying only half to sixty percent of his potential. Both his right and left feet are superb, he demonstrates considerable pace, he’s quick, adept at dribbling, proficient in confined areas, and equally effective in expansive spaces. His disposition is extraordinary, and he ensures that ostentatious displays are absent on game day. Regarding his technical prowess, he stands among the top five players I’ve collaborated with.”
Milner has not yet disclosed his intentions for the future, with his current agreement expiring in the summer, yet his concentration stays with Brighton. Individuals familiar with him suggest he will likely be uncomfortable with the praise for this recent accomplishment, but Klopp expresses immense admiration for Milner and this milestone.
“Now, consider, is there anyone with even a slight possibility of achieving such a high volume of matches? Likely not,” Klopp stated. “I anticipate that after game number 780 or whatever total he reaches, upon his retirement, whatever path he chooses next, society profoundly requires individuals of his caliber.”
“He possesses the most generous spirit, evident through his charitable foundation and his conduct within the changing room or on the football field. I am truly delighted for him that he has achieved this significant benchmark.”
