James Milner

Versatile England midfielder James Milner was signed by City in August 2010 and offers a wealth of experience in the Premier League.

The 2010 PFA Young Player of the Year was born in Leeds in 1986. James excelled at school and in 1996 was signed up by Leeds United’s youth academy, making his full debut in November 2002 at the age of 16. Just a month later Milner became the youngest player to score in the Premier League, scoring in Leeds’ 2-1 win against Sunderland.

The midfielder had a month-long loan to Swindon Town before being signed by Newcastle United in July 2004. At St. James Park he played under four managers, the late Sir Bobby Robson, Graeme Souness, Glenn Roeder and Sam Allardyce. This meant instability for Milner, who was loaned to Aston Villa for the 2005/06 season.  He made 27 appearances for the Villans before heading back to the North East.

A midfielder who can play on either flank or in the middle, Milner gained UEFA Cup experience at Newcastle and became a first-team regular before signing for Aston Villa in a permanent deal in August 2008. He scored 10 goals during his second spell at Villa Park but became recognised for his assists.

The 24 year-old has played for England at under 15s, under 17s, under 20s and under 21 levels. In total, Milner has made 81 appearances for England in all capacities, including 11 for the senior team, scoring 25 goals. He also figured as part of England’s 2010 World Cup squad in South Africa.