James Milner reveals Jurgen Klopp wanted 37-year-old to STAY for another season at Anfield
‘Jurgen Klopp wanted me… but the club made the decision’: James Milner reveals Liverpool boss wanted the 37-year-old to STAY at Anfield for another season before the German was overruled
James Milner hinted that the Liverpool hierarchy may have overruled manager Jurgen Klopp’s wishes by refusing to offer the midfielder a new contract.
The 37-year-old striker is about to leave the club on a free transfer, having moved from Manchester City to the Reds in 2015.
During his time at Anfield, Milner became one of the side’s most decorated players, winning a string of silverware including the Champions League and Premier League trophies.
As the midfielder craves new challenges, an interview with LFCTV revealed that Milner was still a big part of Klopp’s plans for next season before a decision was made on the player’s departure.
Milner told the club’s channel: “It would be a shame to quit if you still have a little life left in you.
An emotional James Milner said goodbye to Anfield after his last home game for Liverpool
But if Jurgen Klopp had had his way, Milner might have stayed at the Merseyside club
“Jurgen Klopp is a pretty good manager and the fact that he still wanted me here and said I can do a job is nice.
“I haven’t started a lot of games this year but I feel like I contributed when asked,” the player added.
“Of course the club has made a decision about that. It’s nice I’m in a position where the manager wanted me to stay but it got to the point where I agreed [with it].’
Milner played in his final game at Anfield on Saturday as the Reds faced Aston Villa, coming on as a substitute for Jordan Henderson in the 72nd minute.
After the final whistle, Milner – along with other departing players including Roberto Firmino, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – was treated to a guard of honor by their teammates.
Fans unfurled banners in tribute to the departing midfielder and Milner appeared visibly moved as he waved goodbye to Merseyside.
The 37-year-old was treated to a guard of honor at Anfield after the Reds’ draw against Villa
Fans paid tribute to the midfielder’s tremendous achievements during his eight years with the club
Klopp stated that Firmino and Milner had ‘shown what we will miss’ in their performances against Villa, after Firmino scored the equalizer to keep Liverpool’s dim Champions League hopes alive next season.
Milner has yet to confirm where he will play next season, but Brighton are said to be in advanced talks with the midfielder as they seek reinforcements as they prepare to enter Europe.
Leeds are also said to be interested in bringing their academy graduate back to Elland Road, but talks are likely to hinge on the club’s future in the Premier League.
With just one game left to play this season, Leeds are in the relegation zone after taking just two points in their last eight games.