Klopp confirms contract talks with Liverpool star
James Shearman
- Updated: 13 Feb 2022 11:41 GMT
- 3 min read
Jurgen Klopp is keen for Liverpool to offer James Milner a contract extension that would see him enter his 20th season in the Premier League.
Klopp wants to keep his vice captain at the club, while Milner is waiting for a formal offer before deciding on his future.
The 36-year-old wants to continue his playing career, but is faced with the dilemma of remaining a squad player at Anfield or going somewhere that he could be a regular starter.
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He has made 23 appearances for the Reds this season but has fallen behind Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Fabinho, Curtis Jones, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Harvey Elliott in the pecking order.
The ex-England international made his Premier League debut for Leeds, aged 16, in November 2002, and has kept himself in excellent shape ever since.
And, having not played abroad, Milner is now fourth on the Premier League's appearance list, behind Gareth Barry, Ryan Giggs and Frank Lampard.
Klopp on Milner
Milner has been tipped to take up coaching once his playing career comes to a close, with Klopp likely to offer the midfielder a role at Anfield.
But, the German Boss is well aware that Milner has no interest in hanging up his boots just yet.
''Talks will happen with Milly. We will see,'' Klopp said.
''There is no chance he will retire next year. He is desperate to play on. I understand that.
Should Milner leave Liverpool after six seasons with the club, a return to Leeds could be on the cards.
Jürgen Klopp expects James Milner to continue his playing career into the coming years ⤵️
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 12, 2022
''Life after football is much longer than your career so it makes sense to extend playing as long as you can, it is better than other things,'' Klopp added.
''Milly will be fine after his career as well but he obviously loves what he is doing and he will play football next year, definitely.''
Milner is recognised as one of the best free transfer signings in Premier League history, brought to Anfield by Brendan Rodgers, as he has gone on to win the Premier League and Champions League since leaving Manchester City.
The Englishman is also credited for having a massive influence on Liverpool's dressing room atmosphere.
