James Milner announces football retirement after 24yr career

English national, James Milner, has announced his retirement from football following a 24-year career on the pitch of the round leather game.

Milner penned an emotional departing statement, announcing his retirement at the age of 40, following a three-year contract spell with Brighton which ended this summer.

The football star, while announcing departure on Monday, paid tribute to his colleagues and managers, and said, ”I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some unforgettable moments, from fighting for survival to winning trophies, playing in Europe, and representing my country at two European Championships and two World Cups.

”But more than anything, it’s the people and friendships I’ve made throughout the game that I’ll cherish forever,” Milner who made his debut with Leeds United in 2002 added.

”From making my debut for Leeds United who I supported growing up at the age of 16 and became the Premier League youngest scorer, I could never have dreamed of the journey I’ve been on, right through not being able to lift my foot last year and then coming back to be part of Brighton qualifying for Europe for the second time in their history at the age of 40,” he continued.

”Football has given me far more than I could ever have imagined, and I will always, I will always be thankful for the opportunities it provided.  Thank you to everyone who has been part of the Journey,”

Milner made over 903 career appearances in his career scoring 86 goals during his time at Ellands Road, as well as Swindon Town, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton winning the Premier League, UEFA Champions League as well as the Super Cup and FIFA World Club Cup with the Kop, where he had the most success in his career.

He also amasses 61 caps for the English national team and registered one goal.