Liverpool Midfielder Pens Short-Term Contract Extension: Good Move For Both Parties?

Liverpool have confirmed on their official website that James Milner has penned a short-term contract extension. It has been mentioned that the English midfield ace has signed a new deal with the Reds which will keep him at Anfield beyond this summer.

Milner’s Recent Form At Anfield

The 36-year-old played a sporadic role in Jurgen Klopp’s squad last season as he managed to put in some solid displays for the Merseyside outfit at the centre of the park. Milner has made 39 appearances for the Reds this season, picking up three assists on all fronts.

The English sensation has seen most of his game time come off the bench but has done well to average 1.2 tackles, 0.7 interceptions, 0.8 clearances and 0.9 key passes per game in the Premier League. He has even been excellent with his ball distribution after completing 86% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).

Milner Pens Short-Term Contract Extension: Good Move For Both Parties?

Milner is a tough-tackling midfielder who usually works his socks off in chasing down the opposition at the centre of the park. He doesn’t take too many risks when clearing the danger inside his half and can even create some inviting opportunities for his teammates up top. However, the veteran midfielder can be a bit slow to react to the danger as father time is slowly but surely catching up with his game.

Therefore, it makes sense for Liverpool head coach Jurgen Klopp to keep hold of Milner beyond this summer as he can still play an influential role in his match-day squad at Anfield.

At 36, the English talent might still have a year or two left in him to play at a high level. Hence, the Reds have done well to keep hold of Milner beyond this summer.

The English workhorse can benefit from staying at the Merseyside club where he would have a good shot at winning a few trophies in the upcoming campaign. Liverpool can also rely on Milner to do a decent job when Klopp needs his services to cope with injuries and fixture congestion next season.