After 147 appearances over five seasons for Manchester City, James Milner has decided to permanently move to a different club for the fourth time in his career, with Liverpool next on his list. The 29-year-old was part of the England squad for both the 2010 & 2014 World Cups, as well as the 2012 & likely the 2016 European Championships. Despite many Liverpool supporters having different objectives for the club this upcoming campaign, Milner will be a vital factor in whether or not Liverpool are ‘successful’ this season.
First off, Milner will run his socks off every match whether he is playing Bournemouth at home or Manchester United away. That is just the type of player he is. In 2013, Manchester City were down 2-0 after 12 minutes in Germany against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Although City had already secured a spot in the round of 16, they took it upon themselves to see what they could make of the match.
Milner was paramount in bringing City back, not only because he scored the go-ahead goal in the 62nd minute. He was given a more central role that day, and he flew into to tackles and started counter attacks. Liverpool need more players who will give everything they have until the referee blows for full-time.
Secondly, Milner is an experienced Premier League player. He has been playing in the Premier League since 2002. A lot of supporters are criticising the club for buying too many young talents while forgetting about the club needing experience now. Milner is that type of signing. With Steven Gerrard heading for the USA, Milner makes up for some of that leadership Gerrard has left behind. Although the club will never be able to replace what Gerrard has done, Milner is a great signing in my eyes. If Henderson is given the captain’s band, which is most likely a lock, he will not be able to lead on his own. Behind Martin Skrtel, Milner will be the oldest player in the starting XI.
Lastly, Milner is one of the most versatile players in the league. Throughout his career, he has played as a wing-back, full-back, and winger on top of being a tidy centre midfielder. With another European campaign ahead of Liverpool this season, it is likely to be another long season for the players, which means injuries will happen.
I can guarantee Milner will not play the same position every time he steps on the pitch for Liverpool. Even though he does not score many goals, he will help the club in other ways, whether it be putting in a decent cross or pressing a defender to help spur a counter attack. He was one of the most unsung heroes of City’s title seasons, but I ensure you his efforts will not go unnoticed at Liverpool.
