Outgoing Liverpool midfielder James Milner has seemingly revealed Jurgen Klopp wanted him to stay past this season.
The 37-year-old was this week one of four players confirmed to be leaving the club upon the expiration of his contract at the end of June, bringing to an end his impressive eight-year stay at Anfield.
An outstanding professional over the course of his Merseyside stay, Milner deservedly received a guard of honour from the rest of his team-mates after the full-time whistle. Chants of 'there's only one James Milner' soon after rang out around the stadium, offering a clear indication of how highly thought of the 37-year-old is among fans.
READ MORE: What crying Firmino did at full-time after transforming the mood for Liverpool
READ MORE: Klopp explains what referee told him about disallowed goal
Some supporters had hoped the 2019 Champions League winner would sign another one-year contract extension, as he did last summer, and Milner appears to have hinted Klopp would have kept him at the club had he been given the authority to do so. Addressing his looming exit with LFCTV, the veteran midfielder said: "It would be a shame to stop when you've still got a bit of life in you. Jurgen Klopp is a pretty good manager and the fact he still wanted me here and said I can still do a job is pleasing. I haven't started a load of games this year, but I feel like I have contributed when I have been asked to.
"The club obviously made their decision on that. It's nice I'm in a position where the manager wanted me to stay, but it got to the point where I got to terms [with it]."
Introduced in the 72nd minute on Saturday afternoon as the Reds looked to turn the Aston Villa game on its head, Milner earned one final home appearance as he nears the end of his eight-year stay at the club.
Brighton are expected to win the race for the vastly experienced professional, though Leeds United are believed to be among the other sides interested in a deal. All but confirming he will be remaining in the division next campaign, when speaking after the 1-1 draw with Villa, Milner told BBC Sport: "It was a special moment. I've been lucky to have a pretty good time here. It is a special place. I might play here again, who knows."
Reflecting on his successful stint at Liverpool, which saw the former Manchester City man claim the biggest prizes on offer, he added: "The trophy Liverpool always wanted was the league title and to leave after eight years and have done that, it's what you hope happens. I think anytime you win a trophy is it special. It's what a club like this demands. The league title was the one we wanted and to deliver that was special.
"I've had an unbelievable time here. I'm content. Happy with the job and the team I've been a part of and the success we've contributed to the club's history. One more game to go, it would be nice to finish with a win. I've been available most of the year, I've contributed and I still feel good. Age is just a number."
READ NEXT:
- Liverpool final fixture and how they can still qualify for Champions League
- Liverpool fans unite in emotional applause for Dan Kay
- What Ten Hag said about Liverpool with minutes still remaining in Villa game
- Liverpool star Cody Gakpo left with ugly chest injury after Tyrone Mings tackle
-
Why Cody Gakpo goal was ruled out by VAR for Liverpool vs Aston Villa
