James Milner confirms Jurgen Klopp wanted him to stay but ‘content’ with Liverpool exit

James Milner is moving on from Liverpool this summer (Picture: Getty Images)

James Milner will make his last Liverpool appearance when the Reds take on Southampton on Sunday, despite Jurgen Klopp wanting to keep the veteran at Anfield.

The 37-year-old has been with Liverpool since 2015, making over 300 appearances for the club and winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup, among others.

It has been a hugely successful spell for the England international but it comes to an end when his contract runs out and he will move on at the end of the season.

Reds boss Klopp wanted Milner to stay on longer, but the versatile player says the club’s hierarchy felt differently, although he accepts their decision.

‘It’s all good because the manager wanted to keep me – which as a player is what you want,’ he said.

‘Obviously the club decided a different way. In my head it felt like it could be a good time, so I’m content with how it’s all come about

‘It was probably about three weeks ago that I heard from the club. Because I hadn’t heard anything, in my own mind I had probably decided myself that I would be going.

‘I will continue to play football, so yes I could be back in front of the Kop potentially. It’s an option.’

Milner is expected to sign for Brighton and continue his playing career past his 38th birthday which comes round in January.

After that he is considering going into management, although admits he is not entirely convinced about the prospect yet, despite earning his coaching badges while he still plays.

‘Some days I think I’d love a go at management – and then other days you see a manager sign a new contract and six weeks later they get sacked,’ he said. ‘That’s when you think “maybe the golf course is a better option!”

‘We’ll see. Doing my badges has helped me learn and I’ve played under some unbelievable managers.

‘I’ve played under some poor ones as well! But you can still learn from them.’

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‘Obviously the club decided a different way.’