Liverpool star James Milner cleans gravel during lockdown
Gary Neville has paid tribute to James Milner and the reputation he has built as a model professional. At 34 years old, the veteran continues to set the benchmark for reliability and consistency, while playing a key role in the dressing room.
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At first Milner wasn't keen on taking up the role as a makeshift full-back, but he showed an exemplary attitude by getting on with the job.
"I think the first time I had to play at left-back was at Manchester United in the Europa League," Milner said.
"Alberto Moreno was injured and the manager gave me a choice: did I want to play at left-back or right-back?
"My answer was, 'That's like asking which one of these guys do you want to spend a night with your missus?!'
James Milner is Liverpool's unsung hero (Image: GETTY)
"His English wasn't that good then, so I think it went over his head!"
Milner was soon reinstated back into midfield the following season, but he still sometimes fills in when required.
"The manager asked me to do it and I did it to the best of my ability," he added.
"It's not my best position, and hopefully I've shown that playing in midfield before and after, but if the manager asks you to play somewhere, you just do it. I told him that I didn't particularly want to do it, but the team comes first."