James Milner: Premier League Veteran and Brighton Star

Brighton, 11 January 2026 – James Philip Milner, born on 4 January 1986, is an English professional footballer renowned for his versatility, longevity, and leadership. Having spent over two decades in the Premier League, Milner holds the record for the longest playing career in the top flight and is one of only five outfield players to have featured at the age of 40 or older. Currently playing as a midfielder for Brighton & Hove Albion, he has won multiple major honours across his career with clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool.

Early Career and Rise at Leeds United

Milner grew up in Wortley, Leeds, and joined Leeds United’s academy at the age of 10. He made his Premier League debut in 2002 at just 16 years old, becoming the youngest player to score in the competition at the time. Despite Leeds’ relegation to the Championship in 2004 due to financial difficulties, Milner gained valuable experience, including a loan spell at Swindon Town where he scored two goals in six appearances. His time at Leeds taught him resilience, as he dealt with team instability and media scrutiny.

Club Career Highlights

After leaving Leeds, Milner joined Newcastle United in 2004, making over 100 appearances and winning the UEFA Intertoto Cup in 2006. He spent a loan season at Aston Villa in 2005-06 before signing permanently in 2008. At Villa, he won the PFA Young Player of the Year in 2010 and helped the team reach the League Cup final. In 2010, he moved to Manchester City for £26 million, where he won two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, one League Cup, and one FA Community Shield.

In 2015, Milner joined Liverpool on a free transfer, becoming vice-captain. He played a key role in their successes, including the 2019 UEFA Champions League, the 2020 Premier League title, the UEFA Super Cup, the FIFA Club World Cup, and two more FA Cups and League Cups. After eight years at Anfield, he left in 2023 and signed with Brighton & Hove Albion. In 2025, he extended his contract for another year, becoming the first player to appear in 23 Premier League seasons. Despite injuries, including a hamstring issue that sidelined him for most of the 2024-25 season, Milner remains committed to the Seagulls.

International Career

Milner represented England at various youth levels, captaining the under-21 team to the 2009 European Championship final. He earned his senior debut in 2009 and amassed 61 caps, scoring one goal. He featured in the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups and UEFA Euro 2012 and 2016. Milner retired from international football in 2016 to focus on his club career, citing family and workload reasons.

Personal Life and Legacy

Off the pitch, Milner is married to Amy Fletcher and has two children. He speaks Spanish to his kids and is teetotal. In 2022, he was awarded an MBE for services to football and charity. Milner set up the James Milner Foundation, which raises funds for charitable causes. Known for his professionalism and leadership, he has influenced younger players at clubs like Liverpool and Brighton. With 638 Premier League appearances, he trails only Gareth Barry in all-time appearances.

Key Facts and Honours

Frequently Asked Questions

Which clubs has James Milner played for?

Milner has played for Leeds United, Swindon Town (loan), Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Brighton & Hove Albion.

What records does James Milner hold?

He holds the record for the longest Premier League career (23 seasons) and is second in all-time appearances behind Gareth Barry.

Why did James Milner retire from international football?

He retired in 2016 after discussions with manager Sam Allardyce, prioritising his family and club career over the demands of international duty.

What is James Milner’s role at Brighton?

As a versatile midfielder, he provides experience, leadership, and depth to the squad, often mentoring younger players.