BANGKOK, THAILAND - Tuesday, July 14, 2015: Liverpool's James Milner in action against True Thai Premier League All Stars during the True Super Trophy match at the Rajamangala National Stadium on day two of the club's preseason tour. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

James Milner confirmed as new Liverpool vice-captain

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has confirmed new signing James Milner as the club’s vice-captain.

Football - Liverpool FC Preseason Tour 2015 - Day 4 - Away Kit Launch

Rodgers, speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s Premier League opener at Stoke City, praised the new signing and spoke highly of his character and professionalism.

Rodgers lauded: “He works tirelessly.” Explaining that the English midfielder arrives at the club’s training ground two hours before training starts.

“James is someone I’d admired for a long time. He gives everything. He’s a big character,” said Rodgers.

The boss said he believes the 29-year-old will be a perfect deputy for new captain Jordan Henderson, who took on the armband after Steven Gerrard‘s departure.

Earlier this summer, Milner explained his move to Anfield and the lure of playing a central role at the club.

“This move was a selfish move for me,” explained Milner. “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.”

We’ll have more from Rodgers’ first press conference of 2015/16 later.

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