New signing James Milner should be the new captain of Liverpool, according to former England international Peter Barnes.
Milner was signed on a free transfer from Manchester City, the club with whom Barnes accumulated over 100 appearances for himself.
With Steven Gerrard leaving the club for LA Galaxy this summer, a new captain is yet to be named and vice-captain Jordan Henderson is widely-tipped to take over.
But Barnes suggests that it should be former Leeds United and Aston Villa man who leads the team out this season. He told ESPN FC:
“Everyone at Manchester City was sorry to see James go because he was the kind of player who was consistent, week in week out, and would score important goals in all competitions.
“After Steven Gerrard’s departure, Liverpool should make Milner their skipper and let him play anywhere he wants in the midfield, whether it’s central or in a wider role.
“He’s only 29, is one of the fittest players in the league, and could really make a big difference for Liverpool.”
Barnes, who used to play for Manchester City and Manchester United, believes the 29-year-old Milner will prove to one of Brendan Rodgers’ best signings.
The midfielder left City after failing to agree on a new deal.
“City’s loss is Liverpool’s gain and I expect him to be a success straight away at Anfield,” he added.
Barnes also voiced his opinion on striker Mario Balotelli, who managed just one league goal in his first season with the Reds:
“With a fitness cloud above Daniel Sturridge, Brendan Rodgers may need to rely on Balotelli upfront.
“And who knows: he may actually come good. Mario played well for City during his time with us and has the talent to score goals for Liverpool too.
“What Rodgers needs to do is to start Balotelli every game and hope that he will regain his confidence. On his day, he’s a potential match winner.”
