Trent Alexander-Arnold has emphasized that James Milner, who departed Liverpool this summer, holds a unique and irreplaceable position within the club.
The departure of several midfielders, including key players like Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, has led to a significant transformation in Liverpool’s midfield roster.
While some players left due to contract expirations or transfers, the absence of James Milner, a Premier League veteran with a wealth of experience, is particularly notable.
Milner’s departure leaves a void not just in terms of his on-field contributions but also his leadership, versatility, and influence within the squad.
His experience and professionalism made him a valuable asset in Liverpool’s setup.
Alexander-Arnold’s comments indicate that Milner’s presence went beyond his playing role and had a significant impact on the team’s dynamics and culture.
Milner was often seen as a leader in that successful Liverpool team, always seeming to put in a solid performance whether that be in the starting XI or off the bench.
Despite the high-profile signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai so far, Trent knows the size of the loss that Milner will be, with suggestions that he will try to emulate his former teammate in terms of his leadership.
Speaking to theDaily Mail, Trent said: “I play a role by making sure I drive standards every day. Losing Milner, you can’t replace that directly. It will take numerous people. Others have to step up. We need to make sure that the way he kept driving us forward is replaced.
“I am self-aware. I know I will never be a James Milner. I will never be that type of leader but the leadership qualities I do have, I need to show and they need to be seen and heard and used in a way that is effective for the team. I need to keep pushing forward to try to achieve the things I want to achieve.”
The ex-Manchester City midfielder signed a deal with Brighton this summer following the expiration of his Liverpool contract.
Someone who will always speak highly of the midfielder is Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who spoke shortly after Milner’s exit: “A pleasure and a challenge. In the same moment (it) means a pleasure because of his exceptional attitude, really.
“I think for a lot of experienced players you use from time to time the word ‘role model’. But Millie is the role model, how he puts himself pretty much in place to be every day 100 per cent ready.
“It’s a pure example; absolutely outstanding. [It was] a challenge because especially in the beginning everything was alright when he was starting, but when he didn’t start then that was a bit tricky. I never saw a bigger mood change in an instant!”
Liverpool have been trying to find a defensive midfield replacement, with the club embroiled in a transfer saga involving Brighton’s Moises Caicedo and Chelsea.
Despite an agreement reached with the Seagulls, it looks like Caicedo only wants Chelsea and is set to move to London and snub the Merseyside outfit.