James Milner in action for Liverpool (Getty Images)
For the first time in recent memory, Liverpool fans are filled with joy at the start of the season. But you can’t blame them, can you? With six wins out of the first six games, the Reds have made a dream start this time. Although new signings Naby Keita, Xhedran Shaqiri and goalkeeper Allison have created a buzz, usual suspects Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino continue to grab all the headlines with their goals and assists.
But one player, who was instrumental in all six of these wins, is James Milner. But according to a recent report in Daily Mail, the club are yet to offer a new contract to the midfielder.
James Milner has started all six matches in the Premier League so far, playing as the linchpin that held the midfield together. New signing Fabinho is being slowly integrated into the team by Jurgen Klopp but in the meanwhile, Milner has stamped his authority in the starting XI.
In the six matches so far, he has recorded a passing accuracy of 89%. He also assisted 2 goals and created 9 big chances for his teammates, proving he isn’t just playing as a defensive midfielder. Also, his linkup play with the full-backs and wingers to open up the opposing defences is truly incredible.
Milner is like a fine wine which gets better and better with age. At 32, he has the full faith of his manager and is keeping the young guns on the bench. In the recent 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, he covered 13kms and provided the platform for Liverpool to attack.
However, he doesn’t deserve a new contract just because of his technical abilities. Instead, he deserves a new deal at Anfield because of his attitude and professionalism.
In his first season at the club, he was highly influential as he played over 45 games in all competitions. He scored 8 goals and helped the team reach the League Cup final and the Europa League final. But his true character was on display in his second season.
Jurgen Klopp had failed to sign a new left-back and the team suffered a lot due to Alberto Moreno’s lack of form. Enter James Milner.
The midfielder, who earns £120,000-a-week, slotted straight into the left-back role to help the team out. There were concerns about his pace – or rather, the lack of it. But Milner’s relentless pressing, professional attitude and the desire to win, ensured he overcame all obstacles standing in his way.
His minutes were limited in the Premier League last season but he gave his 100% whenever he came on. On the other hand, he was one of Klopp’s main men in the Champions League and assisted 9 goals in the competition as the Reds reached the final in Kiev.
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Milner, unlike the modern footballers, is a player who is concerned with his reputation on the pitch rather than off it. He tends to remain away from the glitz and glamour of modern-day football and keeps his life private.
Hence, Liverpool should do all they can to offer an extension to one of the last men of this dying breed of highly professional footballers.
