James Milner has admitted he never thought another club other than Leeds United could 'get into' him as much as Liverpool have done.
The 37-year-old former England international midfielder is set for the next step in his illustrious career after it was confirmed he would leave Liverpool at the end of this season on a free transfer.
Having won the Premier League, Champions League, Club World Cup, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup and the Community Shield during his time on Merseyside, Milner bid farewell to Anfield yesterday following their 1-1 draw with Aston Villa.
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Milner, of course, started his career at Leeds United and grew up supporting the Whites. But in a career that has also seen him take in spells at Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Man City - where he also won five major trophies - only Liverpool have come close to comparing to the regard he holds Leeds in.
"I've loved every minute here," Milner told Liverpoolfc.com. "Unbelievable club, the size of the club, the history before you come in, and we've managed to create our own history.
"Travelling around the world, seeing the support we have, the special nights we've had here, the European nights, the unbelievable games, obviously Dortmund and Barça always stand out but other periods in games. Those memories will stay with you forever.
"I'm Leeds through and through and always have been and always will be – but I never probably thought that another club would get into me as much as Liverpool has.
"That says everything about the place and the fans and the history and what we've created here, but also the group of people.
"I've been lucky enough to share that dressing room and the people at the training ground and the people that have been here so long – that's what football clubs are about.
"I've been lucky enough to play here for eight years and ultimately the club belongs to the fans. I've been lucky enough to wear the No.7 shirt and [it] probably won't be seen in the full-back positions again maybe! But hopefully I've filled the shirt with everything that a Liverpool player should.
"It's going to be sad to leave and [leave] the people but I'm looking forward to the challenge. I'm fortunate now that we've managed to achieve what we have and pretty much what you wanted to achieve when you come here. That doesn't happen too often, does it?"
Milner had been linked with a return to Elland Road but with Leeds' immediate Premier League future still in doubt, reports suggest he is likely to sign for Brighton and Hove Albion as the Seagulls look increasingly likely to secure European football next term.
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