Monday saw the conclusion of one of the most impressive footballing careers in modern times. A former England international who played more than 330 times for Liverpool announced on social media his career was at an end.
Former Reds vice-captain James Milner announced his 24 year playing career was over. The 40-year old played 22 times for Brighton this past season across all competitions.
He is one of the most decorated and durable players in England over the last two and a half decades, where availability became one of his greatest abilities.
Premier League record holder
Milner made an astounding 658 Premier League appearances over his career having played for Liverpool, Manchester City, Leeds, Aston Villa, Newcastle and the aforementioned Brighton.
Of those clubs, he made the most league showings wearing a Liverpool shirt. During his eight season run at Anfield, Milner lifted the Premier League, Champions League, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, FA Cup and the League Cup.
230 of his league appearances came while at Anfield as Jurgen Klopp made him one of his stalwarts, even if it was as a super sub.
Milner spoke of his incredible ride at the top of the game in his post. "From making my debut for Leeds United, who I supported growing up, at the age of 16 and becoming the Premier League's youngest scorer, I could never have dreamed of the journey I've been on, right through not being able to lift my foot last year and then coming back to be part of Brighton & Hove Albion qualifying for Europe for the second time in their history at the age of 40."
He continued; "To have gone on to represent Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton - and not forgetting a memorable month at Swindon Town - has been an incredible privilege."
Milner broke Gareth Barry's longstanding league appearance record in February of this year when he started and played the full 90 for Brighton in a match against Brentford.
With today's amount of player movement, it is probable that record will stand for a long time.
A valuable asset on and off the pitch
A great example of the kind of leader and professional that James Milner was, is his appointment as Liverpool's vice-captain shortly after he arrived at Anfield on a free transfer.
His professionalism was on display almost every time he made an appearance, and his preseason fitness tests with the Reds were stuff of legends. He dedicated himself to his craft and the betterment of those around him, and it showed over the years.
His positional versatility meant he was played at both fullback spots, centre-back, defensive midfielder, in the No. 8 role, on the wing and through the middle.
Wherever you put him, you knew he was putting in a proper shift, and while it might not be the most beautiful thing you've ever seen on a football pitch, you knew it was not an area you'd have to worry about either.
He was a key contributor at a time of great success for Liverpool under Klopp, and it's arguable that some of those results don't happen without Milner.
He scored 26 goals to go with 45 assists during his Reds tenure, but it was his leadership, calm demeanor and example that really set him apart.
He won countless trophies across his lengthy career, with even more memorable moments to boot. I will let Milner's words wrap this up as we at Rush The Kop which him all the best going forward.
"I leave the game with immense pride, gratitude and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Football has given me far more than I could have ever imagined, and I will always be thankful for the opportunities it provided."
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