After Alberto Moreno showed his true footballing abilities in Liverpool’s opening match against Arsenal, James Milner took over left-back duties. But when you look at the journeyman, you see an average Englishman, who’s quite boring, not very quick, and very basic on the pitch.
I've already had 3 cups of tea in 2017. They were all very nice.
Liverpool’s success this season is largely in part to the experience, tireless work rate, and goalscoring exploits of James Milner. Granted, all five of his goals have been from the spot, but they still hit the back of the net.
Milner does his job without the spectacular, but gets results. The Liverpool backline has been better than it has in years and Jurgen Klopp’s genius to make the Milner switch has easily saved him conceding at least 10 goals.
According to the CIES Football observatory, the research has found that this season James Milner is the second-best fullback in football with a rating of 88 out of 100, only behind Alex Sandro of Juventus. Danny Rose? Behind the one-time-midfielder with a rating of 87.
Source: CIES Football Observatory
James Milner allows for the likes of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, and Philippe Coutinho to be creative. Milner is at the source of their brilliance because he is a no thrills kinda player. He plays simply, works hard, and doesn’t give the ball away cheaply.
Danny Rose loves to forward and contribute in attack, but the reason Liverpool sits above Spurs in the table is James Milner. He’s the rock of Liverpool’s backline.
Despite Rose’s constant willingness to get forward, Milner is the better option.
Squawka’s stats show that Milner has a higher passing percentage (83% to 76%), key passes (27 to 19), and chances created (29 to 21). Rose has been a part of the best defence in the Premier league, but Milner has played a larger role in Liverpool’s defensive success.
Liverpool has struggled to keep a consistent CB pairing and Milner has been called upon to lead on multiple occasions. Thankfully Messi doesn’t play in the Prem or the Liverpool man would be in trouble.
Although it pains me to say it, James Milner is the best left back in the Premier League and Liverpool should be thankful for the transition of the Englishman.
Which iconic football film gets your vote as the best?
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7) United Passions
Honestly, this is hands down the worst football film, but also the worst ever film in general. With stars such as, Tim Roth and Sam Neill, it managed a hilarious $918 on it's opening weekend in North America.
Largely down to the fact that it's representing FIFA in good light, after those fuckers put 30 mill behind it. All copies should be shoved up Sepp Blatter's area where the sun doesn't shine.
6) Looking for Eric
Slight improvement from United Passions. This British film starring the iconic, Eric Cantona, is about how the Frenchman inspired a recovering alcoholic to sort his life out with his kids and ex-wife.
The footballing maverick helps in many different ways, but it didn't help when Cantona started doing those bloody 1664 adverts.
5) Mean Machine
Filled with a stellar cast, of the usual suspects; your Jason Stathams, Vinnie Jones, Danny Dyers, it's pretty obvious what you're going to get. A load of blokes behind bars, trying to get through prison life via the beautiful game.
A good 90-minute killer, but not one to write home about.
4) Green Street
Was a toss up between Frodo's quest to find his second ring, or Football Factory. But, Green Street just about came on top due to that Northern bloke trying to do a cockney accent... bloody hilarious.
Entertaining for many of reasons, but for those that haven't seen it, and intend to, we don't recommend getting your Nan round for a spot of cake and tea.
3) Bend It Like beckham
Oh christ, now we're talking. What a film this is. If you've not watched it, please do. Plus, Kiera Knightly's in it - tick.
All about how an Indian girl, Jessminder, (I can hear her Mum saying it now), tries to pursue her passion for football, in an attempt to get a scholarship to America. A highlight of 2002, and must see for those that haven't.
2) Goal
A very close second for this brilliant film. Featuring Newcastle's greatest ever striker, Santiago Munez - sorry Shearer.
This classic takes you through the journey of Munez' hardships in Mexico to St James' Park. With the help of the stunning, Anna Friel, along the way - wow.
1) The Damned United
Telling the story of the legend, Brian Clough's, tough time at Leeds and career at Derby. One of the most amazing and entertaining managers to brace the beautiful game.
Michael Sheen, throughout the film gets the Nottingham man spot on. Reflecting the brilliant working relationship with Peter Taylor at the Rams. Informative, humorous, and a credit to the game. "I wouldn't say I was the best manager in the business. But I was in the top one". Brian Clough.
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