James Milner Bio Send To Friend  

After making a record number of appearances for the England U-21 side, Milner made the breakthrough into the senior England side aged 23. The Villa midfielder impressed in his debut against Holland in 2009 and has the potential to secure his place in the squad.

Beginning his career at Leeds, Milner was viewed as one of the best teenage prospects around and became the Premiership's youngest-ever scorer with a goal against Sunderland. However, after showing he could cut it in the top flight, Leeds' financial plight led to his sale and he moved to Newcastle in 2004.

Cementing his reputation as a hard-working and skilful midfielder while at St James', he attracted the attention of Aston Villa (who had taken him on loan in 2005) and he moved for a fee of around £12 million in 2008. A key member of the U-21 international setup, he has much to prove in the senior side.

Strengths: Strong in possession, Milner is able to beat his man with his pace and skill. His willingness to play, versatility and tenacious style make him a useful squad member.

Weaknesses: He does not get on the scoresheet as much as he should and needs to be more consistent with his crossing ability.

Career high: His full debut for the England team, in which he changed the game and created a goal from off the subs' bench for Jermaine Defoe in a 2-2 draw with Holland.

Career low: Sold by the club he loved to Newcastle United for an initial price of £3.6 million, when financial problems eventually forced Leeds to cash in on him in July 2004.

Style: Skilful, tricky, tenacious, a willing runner.

Quotes: ''He plays with the brain of a 30-year-old." Former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri, December 2002.

Trivia: He has a record 46 caps for the England under-21 side.

Soccernet says: He made a real impact off the bench and has the enthusiasm and skill to make an impression if given the chance.