Boyhood Leeds United fan James Milner to break Premier League appearance record today | OneFootball

James Milner will become the Premier League’s all-time appearance leader this afternoon, with the Brighton midfielder named in the starting line-up at Brentford to reach 654 games.

yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk reports the development. He drew level with Gareth Barry on 653 when coming off the bench in the 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa earlier this month. The milestone arrives 24 years after his Premier League debut for Leeds as a 16-year-old.

After emerging from Thorp Arch, he represented Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City and Liverpool, winning Premier League and Champions League honours with the latter two.

He joined Brighton as a free agent in 2023 and has made 34 league appearances for the Seagulls, with today set to be his 35th. Across 26 years in the top flight, he has 56 goals and 87 assists.

Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler praised Milner’s experience, communication and example to team-mates. He described the 40-year-old’s discipline and daily standards as the reasons behind his longevity, calling it a fitting day to underline those qualities.

Milner can add further to his tally between now and May, including at the home of his boyhood club, with Leeds hosting Brighton at Elland Road on 17 May in their penultimate fixture of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk