By Martin Graham
Back in 2002, a 16-year-old James Milner struck his first Premier League goal for Leeds United against Sunderland. More than two decades later, at 39 years and 239 days, he was still finding the net at the highest level. His successful penalty in Brighton’s 2-1 victory over Manchester City placed him as the league’s second-oldest goalscorer. Remarkably, that comes alongside his record as the second-youngest to score in the competition, when he struck at 16 years and 356 days.
Experience and Endurance
Reflecting on the equaliser that cancelled out Erling Haaland’s opener, Milner told Sky Sports that taking the penalty “is not the easiest thing, but my experience helped.” That same quality has been a hallmark of his career. With 640 Premier League matches behind him, few players can rival his consistent presence at the top level.
His latest goal ended a six-year wait, the previous one coming for Liverpool against Leicester City in 2019. Despite the gap of 2,075 days, it ranks only as the 50th longest stretch between Premier League goals.
Praise From Peers
Milner’s longevity continues to earn admiration from former teammates and opponents alike. Ex-Manchester City and England goalkeeper Joe Hart noted that the versatile veteran, who turns 40 in January, “still looks fit and fresh,” whether playing in defence or midfield.
His career span is underlined by the fact he has scored past goalkeepers born in four different decades: the 1960s, 1970s, 1990s, and 2000s. Former Chelsea stopper Mark Schwarzer described him as “an absolute legend of the game,” commending his reliability in high-pressure situations. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, the Australian added that Milner’s fitness, commitment, and penalty against City showed why he continues to deliver when most needed.
