James Milner relishing central role after “selfish move” to Liverpool

July 26, 2015
This Is Anfield

James Milner says fans will see the best of him as a player in a central role and admits it formed part of his decision to leave Manchester City for Liverpool.

The 29-year-old has impressed already with his pre-season performances alongside newly appointed Reds captain Jordan Henderson.

Their ‘engine room’ drives from the heart of Liverpool’s midfield could well prove the catalyst to Brendan Rodgers’ team improving their goals tally when the 2015/16 Premier League season gets underway in two weeks time.

“This move was a selfish move for me,” Milner is quoted on the club’s official website as saying. “Obviously playing at City and playing in different positions – the team will always come first, that’s the way I believe it should be, no matter where you are.

“But I think the move to come to Liverpool and take that mantle on myself was more of a selfish move and hopefully I can do well and contribute to success at Liverpool.

“I’d like to think you will see the best of me now I am in the central role.”

Milner has already earned the praise of many Liverpool fans for his commitment and attitude in Liverpool’s four pre-season friendlies so far.

This was no more so optimised during Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Brisbane Roar in Australia, after which supporters took to social media to praise the Yorkshireman.

Milner & Gomez were individually excellent. Promising signs from both players!

— Tabish Aleemullah (@taleemullah) July 17, 2015

Milner has excellent delivery's. Like how attack minded Clyne is.

— DaveOCKOP (@DaveOCKOP) July 17, 2015

https://twitter.com/LFCseanWilliams/status/621995595159482368

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Milner added that he was drawn to Liverpool for the chance to make the central role his own, something he was unable to do, though versatile, at Man City.

“I probably would agree with Brendan,” he added. “I had some good seasons at City but it was made harder coming in and going out of the side. When that happens it’s not easy keeping your form up.

“Probably I get noticed more being in that central role and at Aston Villa I won Young Player of the Year and was in the team of the year. So it stands out.

“What is more, nobody wanted to pay the kind of money that City paid for me until I did play central midfield.

“Playing in the middle was a big part of me coming to Liverpool. I want to play in central midfield and I think that is my best position.”