James Milner

Ref.Liverpoolfc.com
The ever-dependable James Milner ended his fourth season with Liverpool as a Champions League winner.

Appointed vice-captain upon his arrival from a successful stint with Manchester City in the summer of 2015, Milner’s leadership, experience, professionalism and versatility make him an integral member of Jürgen Klopp’s squad.

While central midfield is his favoured position, Milner - who won 61 England caps during a seven-year international career - regularly fills in elsewhere for the Reds, perhaps most notably in 2016-17, when he spent the entire season as Klopp’s first-choice left-back.

A veteran of more than 500 Premier League appearances, Milner has played in four major finals for Liverpool - most recently the 2019 Champions League showpiece, when his introduction from the bench early in the second half brought with it a typical sense of assurance and nous.

Indeed, Milner played an influential role in the goal that sealed Liverpool’s sixth European Cup, with his corner leading to Divock Origi’s finish.

Milner’s enduring importance to Klopp is evidenced in the fact that he made 45 appearances across all competitions in 2018-19, scoring seven times.

Five of those goals came from the penalty spot, and Milner’s expertise from 12 yards means he is established as Liverpool’s first-choice taker.