From Leeds to Brighton: Milner edges towards unmatched Premier League legacy
James Milner is on the verge of making Premier League history, with the Brighton midfielder just 13 appearances away from becoming the competition's all-time record holder.
The 39-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning more than two decades, turning out for Leeds United, Swindon Town, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City and Liverpool before joining the Seagulls.
The current record belongs to former Aston Villa and Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry, who retired in 2020 after clocking up 653 Premier League appearances.
Milner, who has already amassed 640 games, is now closing in on Barry's long-standing mark and is determined to go one step further.
Known for his consistency, fitness and professionalism, the Englishman has been a regular presence across multiple generations of English football.
His next opportunity to add to his tally will come when Brighton face Bournemouth away, a fixture that could mark the beginning of his final march towards one of the league's most prestigious individual honours.
If he does surpass Barry, Milner will secure his place in Premier League folklore as the competition's most enduring figure.
For a player who made his debut as a teenager at Leeds and has since lifted multiple league titles and the Champions League, it would represent yet another landmark achievement in a career built on resilience and longevity.