Three reasons why Liverpool star should be persuaded to reconsider international retirement
COMMENT By Will Butcher
Gareth Southgate should attempt to convince Liverpool’s James Milner into coming out of retirement to make his 62nd England cap.
The 31-year-old star has been one of Liverpool’s unsung heroes in their quest to rival Premier League leaders Chelsea this season, scoring six goals despite featuring from left-back.
Although the former Leeds ace retired from the England team in August, here is why Three Lions boss Southgate should persuade Milner with games against Germany and Lithuania in March.
Offers versatility
Now plying his trade as Liverpool’s first-choice left-back, Milner offers versatility on the left side of defence as well as his recognised position of central midfield. With Southgate’s England squads limited in number, calling up a player currently in form that can play in multiple positions will prove a huge boost to the Three Lions’ boss. That will allow England’s new boss to bring in another attacking option as he has a player who can provide cover in two positions.
Left-back options
After proving his ability to adapt on the left side of defence, Milner’s consistency as well as his goalscoring form from defence has seen him go from strength to strength and become one of the most in-form left-backs in the Premier League. Both Kieran Gibbs and Ryan Bertrand have failed to hit the heights that they are normally capable of offering, while Luke Shaw, Danny Rose and Aaron Cresswell have all struggled with injury during the 2016-17 campaign. Milner’s ability to maintain both fitness and form sees him as a good bet ahead of Southgate’s current options.
Experience
Milner, now 31, offers plenty of experience after 61 England caps and spells with Leeds, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City and Liverpool in the Premier League. With youngsters Marcus Rashford, Jordan Pickford, John Stones, Eric Dier and Raheem Sterling all under the age of 23 after being called up in Southgate’s last England squad, experience in the national side is vital. Not past his best, Milner can still offer plenty of quality in either defence or in midfield as well as offering crucial advice to the younger England stars.
In other Liverpool transfer news, the club may be prepared to sanction the departure of this defender in the summer if it means they can land this target.
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