“It’s not a criticism of him" - Jamie Carragher on James Milner

Pundit Jamie Carragher has given his thoughts on Liverpool midfielder James Milner.

The Englishman has started in three of Liverpool's eight competitive games this season.

Milner has struggled in those matches. The 36-year-old has averaged a WhoScored player rating of 6.27 across the early parts of the campaign.

Carragher has given his opinion on Milner's form.

“You are talking about can Liverpool continually do it (play at a high-level of intensity),” he told CBS Sports (07/09/22 at 10:20 pm UK time).

“Well, they can if they get fresher younger players.

“The problem is that they have a lot of older players. James Milner is playing in Liverpool’s midfield at 36. That’s happened at least three or four times this season.

“It’s not a criticism of him, that’s a criticism of the club. Liverpool should not be in a position where James Milner is playing in midfield at 36.”

Anfield Watch Verdict

Carragher is spot on. It's not Milner's fault that he is starting games despite the fact that he is well past his best.

The Englishman's contract expires at the conclusion of the 2022-23 campaign. Therefore, we would be surprised if Milner was at Anfield next season.

The midfielder has been a fine player for Liverpool. Milner has scored 26 goals and registered 46 assists in 297 appearances for the club's first-team.

He has also won the Champions League, Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, Premier League title, League Cup, FA Cup and Community Shield with Liverpool.

So, Milner will always be remembered fondly by the Anfield faithful. Hopefully the 36-year-old finishes the 2022-23 campaign strongly.