PL record appearance holder Milner retires
James Milner has announced his retirement from football at the age of 40.
Milner, who has spent the last three years at Brighton, began his career at boyhood club Leeds, where he made his Premier League debut as a 16-year-old in 2002
He also played for Newcastle, Aston Villa, Man City and Liverpool.
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Milner played 24 seasons in the top-flight and broke the record for the most Premier League appearances while playing for Brighton against Brentford in February, and ends his career with a total of 658.
He said: "After 24 seasons in the Premier League, it feels like the the right time to bring an end to my playing career.
"From making my debut for Leeds United, who I supported growing up, at the age of 16 and becoming the Premier League's youngest scorer, I could never have dreamed of the journey I've been on, right through to not being able to lift my foot last year and then coming back to be part of Brighton qualifying for Europe for the second time in their history at the age of 40.
"To have gone on to represent Newcastle, Aston Villa, Man City, Liverpool and Brighton and not forgetting a memorable month at Swindon, has been a huge privilege
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Gareth Barry was full of praise for James Milner after he broke his record for most Premier League appearances
"I've been fortunate enough to experience some unforgettable moments, from fighting for survival to winning trophies, playing in Europe, and representing my country. But more than anything, it is the people and friendships I've made throughout my time in the game I will cherish forever.
"To my family, thank you for every sacrifice, every mile travelled and every moment of encouragement. None of this would have been possible without you.
"I leave the game with immense pride, gratitude and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Football has given me far more than I could have ever imagined, and I will always be thankful for the opportunities it provided."
More to follow.
