Former Liverpool star Ryan Babel has sent a message to James Milner after his recent contract extension.
The Reds midfielder has put pen to paper on a new one-year extension to his deal, which keeps him at Anfield until 2023. That means the 36-year-old will have been at Liverpool for eight years by the time his contract comes to an end.
The ECHO understands Milner has taken a significant pay cut to remain at Liverpool, having also turned down offers from the Premier League and abroad in the process. Jurgen Klopp was the catalyst behind this deal being reached and is believed to be thrilled Milner has extended his stay at the club.
READ MORE: Liverpool looking at range of transfer targets with Darwin Nunez on summer shortlist
MANE BID: Liverpool instantly reject bid for Sadio Mane as Bayern Munich 'poker game' begins
HAVE YOUR SAY: What do Liverpool need this summer?
Babel, who spent three-and-a-half years at Liverpool, during which time he scored 22 goals in 146 appearances. The Netherlands international took to Instagram to send a message to Milner following his contract renewal.
“When quality is judged over age… amazing and well deserved,” wrote Babel.
Speaking to the club website on Monday, Milner reflected on the "extraordinary" recent events that convinced him he is still in the perfect place to play his football. The veteran midfielder has made 289 appearances for Liverpool since arriving at the club on a free transfer from Manchester City in 2015.
He said: "Last season was extraordinary, even though it didn’t have the ending we hoped it would. But I think that will only make us all even hungrier for more success, to be honest. I felt that after the parade and that played a part in my decision-making also. It’s a unique club.
“Now this is signed, I’m already looking forward to getting back with everyone, refocusing and going again. It’s a brilliant dressing room to be part of.”
Milner added: “I’m very pleased to be staying for another season. I have never taken playing for this club for granted and I never will. An overriding feeling for me – and a vitally important one in the process – was the belief I can still contribute to the team. The gaffer was clear what he thought and that was a big factor in me extending my contract.
“Ultimately it was a decision I made, with the support of my family, on the basis of the quality of people at the club; teammates first and foremost, along with the manager and coaches. Plus the brilliant training ground staff, who are the heartbeat of AXA. From the medical room, sports science, the kit department, nutrition, the canteen and office staff. All people who make the team what it is.
“As long as I can still play my part, that’s not something easy to walk away from."
