‘An example to all’ Ex-Leeds team-mates salute James Milner after retirement | OneFootball

James Milner has been hailed by former Leeds United team-mates after confirming his retirement from professional football. The 40-year-old said in a post that he is ending a 24-season career.

He came through at Leeds as a teenager, had a brief loan at Swindon Town, then played for Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton. Milner became the Premier League’s all-time record appearance-maker earlier this year and finishes with 658 top-flight games. His honours include 3 Premier League titles, a Champions League and multiple domestic cups.

Jonathan Woodgate, whose final Elland Road season coincided with Milner’s first, said the midfielder should be proud and described him as an example to all players.

Ian Harte, who played in Milner’s 4-3 debut win at West Ham in November 2002, praised a brilliant career and wished him a retirement filled with golf. Robbie Keane and promotion-winning captain Liam Cooper also paid tribute, with Cooper highlighting Milner’s example and signing off with MOT.

Tributes arrived from beyond Leeds too, including messages from Frank Lampard, Georginio Rutter and Harry Wilson.

In his statement, Milner reflected on debuting for boyhood club Leeds at 16, becoming the Premier League’s youngest scorer, battling injury last year, then helping Brighton qualify for Europe for the second time in their history at 40. He thanked supporters, team-mates, staff and owners across his clubs, as well as his family, and said he leaves the game with pride and gratitude after playing for England at two European Championships and two World Cups.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk