Andy Robertson sends touching message as James Milner breaks PL record

James Milner broke the all-time Premier League appearance record in Brighton‘s win over Brentford, and Andy Robertson had a touching message to share for the history-maker.

Milner made his record-breaking 654th Premier League appearance on Saturday, overtaking former teammate Gareth Barry’s previous record tally in the competition.

The 40-year-old was named in the Seagulls’ starting lineup and helped end a six-game run without a victory on his history-making day.

There has since been an overwhelming number of messages and celebratory posts recognising the longevity of Milner’s career, which started as a 16-year-old at Leeds in 2002.

Andy Robertson, who shared the pitch 194 times with Milner at Liverpool, was among them, with his Instagram message both touching and humorous.

“The Kop is right, there’s ‘only one James Milner!’” Robertson’s message started.

“Most Premier League appearances ever. An unbelievable achievement and one I can’t see ever getting overtaken.

“I’m sure everyone will talk about mentality and character- and they’re right but what a footballer. Technical ability and creativity. I feel very lucky I got to play with you for so long.

“Cracks me up how much the man himself will be hating all the fuss and attention. Suck it up Jimmy… gonna have to accept there’s a lot of people out there who appreciate how good you are.

“Proud to be able to call you my mate @jamesmilnerofficial.”

Joe Gomez sends heart-warming message after James Milner breaks record

Mo Salah, Curtis Jones, Kostas Tsimikas and Virgil van Dijk were also among those to comment on Milner’s record on their Instagram stories, with Joe Gomez‘s particularly heart-warming.

Gomez, who was only 18 when he joined the club in the same summer as Milner, spoke of how influential the veteran has been throughout his career to date.

“One of the biggest influences on my career on and off the pitch. The epitome of hard work and an unbelievable player,” Gomez penned.

“Grateful to have shared a dressing room with you. Congratulations on such a big milestone.”

The messages and reaction to Milner’s record speak to the impact he has had throughout his career, and he is fondly remembered at Liverpool as one of, if not their best-ever free transfer.