High-flying Leeds United, although favourites to secure a Premier League return after years of despair, had a couple of stumbling blocks in their past two Championship encounters. A home defeat to Birmingham City followed by a Friday night draw against Sheffield Wednesday jeopardised their top of the table spot. However, the supporters would now demand a promotion more than ever to reunite with James Milner who was forced to leave the Whites back in 2004 amid financial conundrum. According to Hull Daily Mail, Milner is open to joining Leeds United should Bielsa’s side gain promotion to the Premier League.
Milner, 32, is enjoying the form of his life but Liverpool, his current suitors, are stalling on a new deal that has sparked rumours of a departure next summer. There have been confusions over the length of his current terms, but it is understood to be until the summer of 2020, as confirmed by Liverpool Echo.
The club will monitor his status next year before offering an extension, but the versatile veteran might explore a new challenge if his boyhood side returns to the top tier. The player was having a successful stint at Manchester City but opted not to renew his contract to play more centrally. Brendan Rodgers, the then Liverpool gaffer, grabbed the opportunity and convinced Milner to complete a Bosman move to Merseyside.
Although he spent an entire season playing as a left-back under Jurgen Klopp, a place in the centre of the pitch was eventually secured by Milner who is now an invaluable asset and probably the first name on the team sheet ahead of club skipper Jordan Henderson. Those tireless runs and persistent pressing is a nightmare for any opponent and Klopp, the Reds boss has hailed his work ethics and tipped him to play for many more years without any doubt.
“With Milly for sure, age is no issue. He is a naturally skilled boy, he’s such a sports guy, he is good at each sport he tries.
“Our players can play until 36, 37 even 38, and because of his physical abilities, I am pretty sure Milly is one of them if he is lucky with injuries. The end is not to see, and his desire to improve is exceptional.”
Milner had impressive spells with Newcastle United as well as Aston Villa but still remembers his days in West Yorkshire where he saw his dreams shattered prematurely.
#TBT remembering great times playing at Elland Road. Good luck to the @England lads there tonight – especially @trentaa98 on his debut! #whereitallbegan #mot #comeonethe3lions ?????????? pic.twitter.com/CVh9oGbrxh
— James Milner (@JamesMilner) June 7, 2018
Leeds, meanwhile, are a rejuvenated force under iconic Marcelo Bielsa and must maintain this enthusiasm for the upcoming months to attain their objective. Milner will be available for cheap next summer, and the club must hand him the opportunity to fulfil his unfinished business at Elland Road where he grew up as a professional footballer.
His presence will add profound experience, and his versatility would allow Bielsa to slot him in different roles of his flexible team formation. Milner has featured with distinction everywhere (barring between the sticks) on the pitch, and his age won’t be an impediment anytime soon while running the show from Leeds midfield. Everything, however, depends on whether the Whites leave up to the expectations and keep fighting the odds to script this romantic reunion.
