James Milner in action for Liverpool (Getty Images)
Former Leeds United forward Neil Whelan has backed Liverpool and England star James Milner to return to Elland Road, according to The Express.
Milner, 34, came through the youth ranks of Leeds United before joining Newcastle United in the summer of 2004. He then signed for Manchester City in 2010 after a two-year stint with Aston Villa. He won the Premier League title twice with City and also the English Super Cup.
Currently with Liverpool, Milner is one of the most experienced players in English football, with over 700 appearances for several clubs in the country. He has been a regular under Jurgen Klopp in the past few years but this season, he has seen limited game time. And this would be the right chance for the Whites to snap him up in the summer.
Marcelo Bielsa’s men have overcome the slight dip in form and have managed to reach the top of the championship table, leading West Brom by 1 point. The Whites are hopeful for automatic qualification to the top-flight and will need to be stronger if they manage to play in the Premier League next season.
Leeds have a plethora of midfield talents in their ranks but some of the players like Jamie Shackleton, Mateusz Bogusz and Jordan Stevens are too young and still in their learning curve. Therefore, to play at a higher level, Bielsa will need to strengthen the midfield with some experienced campaigners.
In that regard, James Milner would be the best option as he can be their leader in the middle of the park. He has already been with the club earlier in his career and could be a great addition.
The Englishman’s experience would be a key factor for Leeds if they happen to obtain Premier League status. A central-midfielder by trade, Milner is capable of playing in various positions except in the heart of the defence. His versatility, which is already well-known in English football, can be helpful for the club’s rise.
Though he is 34, the former Manchester City has still got some energy left in his tank to play at the highest level, as evident from the lung-bursting performances he comes up with for Jurgen Klopp. He has featured in 33 games this season and has racked up 4 goals and 4 assists across all competitions.
Leeds mostly have youngsters in their squad and the veteran English international could be the missing link for the Championship side. He would be a valuable asset as he has been for his previous sides.
Milner is a complete player with experience and a handful of trophies, and has the ability to carry a team forward. This can be made use of by the Whites, who will need to stay at the top of their game in the long run.
Hence, if Leeds manage to lure the Liverpool stalwart to their side in the summer, they will have made a terrific signing.
