‘An example to all’: Ex-Leeds teammates salute James Milner after retirement confirmed | OneFootball

James Milner has been hailed as an example to all by former Leeds United teammates after confirming his retirement from professional football at 40.

The player said in a post that he is ending a 24-season Premier League career, reflecting on a journey from debuting for Leeds at 16 to helping Brighton qualify for Europe at 40.

Milner began at Leeds, had a loan at Swindon Town, then played for Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton. He won three Premier League titles, a Champions League and multiple domestic cups, and finished as the league’s record appearance-maker on 658 matches.

Jonathan Woodgate praised an incredible career, telling Milner to be proud and calling him an example to all. Ian Harte, who featured in Milner’s 4-3 debut win at West Ham in November 2002, wished him a happy retirement and plenty of golf.

Robbie Keane also offered congratulations. More recent Leeds captain Liam Cooper lauded Milner’s career and example, adding MOT.

Tributes arrived from beyond Leeds too, including Coventry City boss Frank Lampard, Brighton star Georginio Rutter and Fulham’s Harry Wilson.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk