James Milner could leave Liverpool next summer, with his starting place in the Reds’ side not secured, according to Echo journalist Theo Squires.
The popular veteran is out of contract next summer, and while Squires has suggested that Jurgen Klopp would prefer him to stay at Anfield, the has also suggested that the German would perhaps not stand in his way should he choose to depart.
Writing in a piece for the Echo, he said: “Milner has shown no signs of slowing up as he gets older, but with his place in the Reds’ starting XI by no means secure, he could choose to move on for more regular football despite his continued importance to the club.
“Klopp would likely prefer to keep the veteran, but, like recent departures for the likes of Lucas Leiva and Simon Mignolet, would perhaps not stand in his way.”
OPINION
Losing James Milner anytime before his retirement would be a crying shame. The veteran midfielder has been phenomenal for the Reds since arriving from Manchester City in 2015, and despite the fact that he is now 33, he shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. The former England international had a pass completion rate of 84.6% last season, as well as making 1.4 key passes per match, as per Whoscored, and made a total of 43 tackles over the course of the season, as per the Premier League. He is a hard worker with great commitment to the cause, and his versatility and experience make him a vital part of the Reds’ setup. He may not play every week, but Klopp must do absolutely everything he can to ensure that Milner is there beyond next summer. Letting him go, should he want to, would be the right thing to do, but replacing him would be nigh on impossible.
