James Milner declares, “Got a few more in me,” after surpassing Ryan Giggs on the Premier League appearance list

James Milner surpassing Ryan Giggs on the all-time Premier League appearance list is described as an “incredible achievement” by TNT Sports’ Peter Crouch. The versatile Brighton player was determined to continue playing in the English top flight. In the recent 0-0 draw against Wolves at the Amex Stadium, Milner, playing as a midfielder, lasted for 72 minutes, marking his 633rd top-flight game and moving him ahead of Manchester United legend Giggs.

Milner now has his eyes on surpassing former Aston Villa teammate Gareth Barry, who retired in 2020 with 20 more Premier League games to his name. Despite being 38 years old, Milner believes he still has more to contribute to the game. When asked about chasing down Barry’s record, the former England international stated, “We’ll see,” during an interview with TNT Sports.

“The most significant aspect tonight is the game itself. We aimed for a victory, so it’s disappointing not to achieve that. In terms of the game, I hope there are more opportunities ahead for me.”

Milner initiated his career with Leeds United and had his Premier League debut in a 4-3 triumph against West Ham on November 10, 2002. Six weeks later, at just 16 years and 356 days old, he became the youngest scorer in Premier League history by netting in a 2-1 win over Sunderland on Boxing Day in 2002. Although this record was later surpassed by Everton’s James Vaughan in 2005, Milner continued to make headlines throughout his career, securing league titles with Manchester City and Liverpool, and playing for Aston Villa and Newcastle.

In total, he has accumulated 879 appearances in league and cup competitions at the club level, alongside earning 61 caps for England. Milner attributes his longevity to a combination of luck, hard work, seizing opportunities, and consistent dedication over two decades. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying the game and maintaining the desire to perform daily. Milner expresses gratitude for the opportunity to play for remarkable football clubs, including his current team, where he enjoys his football, highlighting the joy as the paramount aspect in his enduring commitment to the sport.

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The Premier League was established in 1992, a full decade before Milner embarked on his professional career. Despite this, he has faced off against nearly 50% of the 4,776 players who have graced the division. Recently marking his birthday, Milner has achieved a unique milestone by becoming the inaugural player to participate in the Premier League at every age from 16 to 38.

With just 17 games remaining in the current season, it’s unlikely that he’ll surpass Barry’s record by the end of the campaign. However, TNT Sports’ Peter Crouch is confident that Milner will achieve this feat in the following season. “I believe he’ll aim for another season,” remarked the former striker, who shared the field with Milner at the international level. Crouch noted that Gareth and James share a good friendship, and he anticipates that Gareth Barry, at home, would be disappointed to lose that record.

Reaching 600 appearances in the Premier League is a remarkable achievement. I recall observing Ryan Giggs when he was just 17, marveling at the number of games he played. Surpassing that is truly incredible. Milner might not discuss it now, possibly due to disappointment with tonight’s performance, but looking back, he can proudly share with his children and grandchildren that he holds the record for the most appearances in the Premier League – an extraordinary accomplishment.

Top Five Premier League Appearances List:

1. Gareth Barry – 653
2. James Milner – 633
3. Ryan Giggs – 632
4. Frank Lampard – 609
5. David James – 572