Former Liverpool player admits he’s had an ‘extra boost’ since leaving Anfield this summer

James Milner has admitted that he’s excited by a new challenge at Brighton after leaving Liverpool.

The veteran midfielder departed Anfield after eight uber successful years this summer, landing on the South Coast with Brighton.

So far, Milner has been a constant in Roberto De Zerbi’s team, starting all three Premier League games so far. And speaking to The Times about his move, the 37-year-old suggested that he was happy to have a fresh start.

“I absolutely loved my time at Liverpool and achieved so much there,” Milner reflected.

“But being in new company, new surroundings, a new manager to learn off, new group of players, new challenge, it’s really given me an extra boost again.”

Milner gets Brighton boost

Milner couldn’t have picked his next destination better if he’d tried. Brighton are the envy of the Premier League right now.

Well, maybe not right now. They have just received a 3-1 humbling at the hands of West Ham, but that aside, they’re the model of how a football club should be run these days.

 

As a result, it’s fair enough that Milner should be excited. By the sounds of things, the decision to leave Liverpool this summer was not his.

Had things gone the Yorkshireman’s – or Jurgen Klopp’s – way, he’d still be a Red now.

But, the decision was made that Milner’s contract wouldn’t be renewed. Despite all the upheaval and uncertainty around Liverpool’s midfield at this moment, that still feels like the right call.

Nevertheless, we know we’ll miss Milly. He may have polarised opinion at times, but the leadership and professionalism the former England international brought will be difficult to replicate.

After more than 20 years at the top of the game, it’s great to hear he still has an appetite for more. We wouldn’t expect anything less.