Andy Robertson pays glowing tribute to James Milner after making Premier League history

James Milner received tributes across the Premier League after making history

James Milner added to his Premier League legacy in a huge way on Saturday(Image: 2020 Getty Images)

Andy Robertson paid an emotional tribute to James Milner after the ex-Liverpool star broke the Premier League appearance record on Saturday.

The 40-year-old started in Brighton's 2-0 win against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium, marking his 654th Premier League match, beating the record set by former Aston Villa and Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry.

Milner's top-flight debut came all the way back in 2002 as a 16-year-old for Leeds United, which at the time made him the second-youngest player ever to play in the Premier League. His illustrious career has seen him also play for Newcastle, Aston Villa, Man City, and Liverpool, while winning the title three times.

Upon breaking the record, the ex-England midfielder was subject to many tributes across English footbal,l with several of his former Reds team-mates joining in, including Robertson.

Having spent six years playing alongside at Anfield, the Scotland captain wrote on Instagram: "The Kop is right, there’s ‘only ‘one James Milner!’ Most Premier League appearances ever. An unbelievable achievement and one I can’t see ever getting overtaken.

"I’m sure everyone will talk about mentality and character- and they’re right but what a footballer. Technical ability and creativity. I feel very lucky I got to play with you for so long.

"Cracks me up how much the man himself will be hating all the fuss and attention, Suck it up Jimmy… gonna have to accept there’s a lot of people out there who appreciate how good you are. Proud to be able to call you my mate @jamesmilnerofficial."

Robertson was joined by Joe Gomez, who offered his own congratulations to Milner on social media. The 28-year-old — who joined Liverpool alongside Milner in 2015 — wrote: "One of the biggest influences on my career on and off the pitch.

"The epitome of hard work and an unbelievable player. Grateful to have shared a dressing room with you. Congratulations on such a big milestone @jamesmilnerofficial." Continuing to have a key role at a top-flight club, former England team-mate Wayne Rooney claimed he believes Milner can play until he's 43 years old.

James Milner has now made the most Premier League appearances in history(Image: Getty Images)

Rooney told BBC Sport: "Milly deserves to break the record. I think it's well known how professional he is and how hard he's worked all throughout his career. It's an incredible record and it just shows that when you work hard, it pays off.

"He's 40 now and players are playing until they're a bit older nowadays. We've seen that with [Cristiano] Ronaldo as well. It wouldn't surprise me if he goes on for another two or three years."