"I'm not looking at that" - James Milner on Gareth Barry's Premier League appearance record

Liverpool midfielder James Milner is closing in on Gareth Barry's record of 653 Premier League appearances.

The 36-year-old has made 594 top-flight appearances. However, Milner has revealed that the prospect of overtaking Barry's record has not entered his mind in recent times.

"It's a long way off and I'm not looking at that, to be honest. Gareth was a machine who kept going and played in every game all the time," he told Liverpoolfc.com, as quoted by Anfield Watch on Twitter.

"It's a bit of a different role for me as I'm not starting every single game, so it's not something I look at. Gaz is a big mate of mine and had an incredible career, but it's not something we've ever really talked about and not something I'll look at at the moment.

"Another 60-odd games is still a long way away at this moment in time, so I'll do what I've always done and take it a game at a time and try to contribute as much as I can."

Anfield Watch Verdict

There is no reason why Milner can't overtake Barry. The midfielder is still in very good shape.

However, we would be surprised if Milner was to break Barry's record whilst playing for Liverpool.

The Englishman is 36 years of age and obviously coming to the end of his career. It is no secret that Liverpool's squad needs a bit of an overhaul, especially in midfield.

Milner is also out of contract at the conclusion of the season. So, the Englishman might be surplus to requirements at Anfield.

But, Milner could go on and play for another Premier League club. We wish the midfielder all the very best heading into the future. He deserves it.