Kalvin Phillips has sent a message to James Milner after the Leeds United legend confirmed his retirement from football.
On Monday, Milner announced his decision to draw the curtain on an illustrious playing career following a record-breaking 24-year spell in the Premier League.
The 40-year-old retires as the player with the most Premier League appearances, having played 658 games in the top flight.
Over the course of his career, Milner won 13 trophies, including three Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League, but it all started at Elland Road.
The midfielder spent the final years of his career at Brighton & Hove Albion, and while the Seagulls were keen to further extend his stay, he decided the time was right to hang up his boots.
16-year-old James Milner’s incredible goal for Leeds United v Chelsea 🎯🚀
Kalvin Phillips and Dominic Matteo send heartfelt messages to James Milner
As one of the most celebrated and respected players of the modern era in English football, it should come as no surprise that tributes have been pouring in since Milner took to social media to announce his retirement.
Several former Leeds United players have also reacted to the news, with Jonathan Woodgate hailing him as an “example to all players”.
Now, Phillips has tipped his hat to the 61-time England international, congratulating him on an “amazing” career and wishing him the best for the future.
The former Leeds United man wrote: “Congrats on an amazing career, mate. All the best for what comes next.”
Dominic Matteo also penned a heartfelt message to his former teammate, writing: “Congratulations, my mate, on a stellar career – the ultimate pro, the ultimate role model. Enjoy putting your feet up, pal.”
Robbie Keane was also among the Leeds United figures to send a tribute to Milner, who announced his arrival at the club with a vintage goal against Chelsea.
Which former Leeds player would you have back, if you could pick one? Raphinha surely has to be up there💎
Could James Milner return to Leeds United?
While Milner’s fitness and quality as a player are not in question, one of the major reasons he stretched his playing career to 40 is his influence in the dressing room.
That is also why it would not be a surprise if the Englishman quickly transitioned into coaching.
There is already a desire among Liverpool fans to see Milner join Andoni Iraola’s coaching staff at Anfield.
Given his leadership quality, Milner is certain to be a great addition to any backroom team in England, and a potential return to Elland Road as a coach would be a full-circle moment for him.
Whether Daniel Farke would want him at this stage or not is a different question.
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