James Milner: Defying Doubters and Setting Records in the Premier League
Brighton & Hove Albion's veteran midfielder, James Milner, has opened up about the driving forces behind his remarkable 24-season career in English football's top flight. In a candid interview, the 40-year-old revealed that a combination of sheer bloody-mindedness, a teetotal lifestyle, and a commitment to yoga have been key to his longevity.
The Power of Proving People Wrong
Milner credits his father for instilling a fighting spirit that has propelled him through challenges, including a serious knee injury in 2024 that left him unable to walk. "He knew how to get the best of me," Milner recalls, explaining how his father's subtle provocations fueled his determination to succeed. This mindset has remained central, with Milner stating, "There's people who are always going to doubt you, but that's always something that's been at my forefront: to prove them wrong."
Breaking Records and Embracing Yoga
Recently, Milner broke Gareth Barry's Premier League appearance record, marking his 654th game with a start against Brentford. He attributes part of his fitness to yoga, a practice he adopted eight or nine years ago on Barry's recommendation. "We're passing it down," he says, noting that Brighton's 18-year-old striker, Charalampos Kostoulas, now joins him for sessions. Milner's dedication extends to meticulous health tracking, including sleep patterns and magnesium intake, leveraging advances in sports science.
Teetotal Lifestyle and Questioning Authority
A decision made during his schooldays in Horsforth to abstain from alcohol has been another cornerstone of his career. "It's just a decision I made that if it would help me, I wouldn't do it," Milner explains, though he respects others' choices. His inquisitive nature has also played a role; he often challenges coaches and medical staff, asking for scientific explanations behind training methods. "I take that as a compliment that I push them to be better," he says of feedback calling him "a nightmare to work with."
Reflections on a Storied Career
Milner has played under legendary managers like Terry Venables, Sir Bobby Robson, and Jürgen Klopp, winning league titles with Manchester City and Liverpool. He holds three Guinness World Records, including most Premier League appearances and longest gap between first and last goals. While he hasn't ruled out a future in management, he acknowledges the challenges, saying, "It's such a hard gig." For now, he remains focused on extending his stay at Brighton, embracing his role as an elder statesman in the squad.
