Milner sidesteps Leeds question but praises ‘incredible’ fans

James Milner has admitted “it will be weird” to face Leeds next season after sidestepping a question over his long-term Liverpool future.

Milner signed a contract extension at Anfield in December, tying him to the Premier League champions until summer 2022.

But speculation over a move to boyhood club Leeds persists as the Championship leaders near promotion to the top flight.

James Milner is a jack of no trades and a master of about five

Marcelo Bielsa has guided his side a point above West Brom and six clear of Brentford with as many games remaining in the second tier.

Milner believes the top flight “will be a better place for Leeds in it” for the first time since 2004, but gave a diplomatic answer as to whether he could see himself playing for them again at any point.

“You never know in football, what’s around the corner, but I just want to contribute and win as many trophies as I can for Liverpool and add to the great history here,” Milner told Sky Sports.

“I’m biased, but I think the Premier League will be a better place for Leeds in it, and it will be weird to play against them next season.

“It seems a long time ago since I pulled on that shirt, you look back at photos and see how big the shirts were back then. Plenty has changed since then, unfortunately I was part of the team that got relegated and they haven’t come back and recovered just yet.

“It would be great to see them back next season and their fans are incredible as well.”

Milner made 54 appearances for Leeds and became the youngest player to score in the Premier League, with financial difficulties and relegation leading to his departure for Newcastle.

The 34-year-old has since featured for Aston Villa, Manchester City and Liverpool, winning three Premier League titles, a Champions League and numerous other trophies.