MOT View: Milner comments could prove potential Leeds switch more than just a reunion
Former Leeds United midfielder James Milner has commented on his inspiration for holding off on his future retirement.
The Liverpool veteran has been linked with a sensational move back to Elland Road should the Whites be promoted, and this proves he is looking to play on.
Milner is currently 34-years-old but has still featured 32 times in all competitions for the Reds and would offer Marcelo Bielsa serious competition in midfield.
Milner used Gary Speed as an inspiration, as he recalled his former teammate as a shining example from his time with the midfielder.
“Speedo was knocking on a bit at that point and we only had one fitness coach; Windy, I think it was,” he said on BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Speedo took the group running on the beach, didn’t he? That showed how good a pro Speedo was and what a good runner he was at his age, so that rubbed off on us, especially when you’re looking at someone as old as he was at that point.
“He was an amazing pro and you’re left thinking, ‘If he can do it at that age, then why can’t I get to his sort of age and still be doing it?”
With the motivation to continue for as long as possible, it may seem smarter for Leeds to make a move for Milner knowing it wouldn’t just be a one-year reunion in West Yorkshire.
The retired-England international would bring great Premier League experience to the likes of Kalvin Phillips, and would certainly help with the promotion of some under-23 options.
With financial constraints on the mind right now, there would be some severe question marks over his £140,000-a-week wages [Spotrac], but there may be the potential that he could take a pay-cut to move back to Leeds.
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