James Milner names four strikers when making 'difficult' best finisher pick

James Milner reeled off some of the most prolific strikers in Premier League history while debating which of his former teammates was the best finisher – including Sergio Aguero and Harry Kane.

On Saturday afternoon, Milner broke the record for the most appearances in Premier League history after featuring for Brighton in their 2-0 win over Brentford.

It was his 654th game in England's top flight, an achievement that moves him one clear of former Manchester City and Aston Villa teammate Gareth Barry, who admitted to being "sad" about losing his record.

"It's the drive and hunger, you want to be the best every day, whether it's game or training," Milner said in his post-match interview on Saturday, after being asked about his longevity in the game.

"I'm surrounded by a lot of young lads," he added. "I want to contribute to their careers, push them and help them get to the highest level as quick as possible. That's what I'm here to do. I feel like I can still contribute minutes."

Ahead of his record-breaking feat, SPORTbible spoke to Milner about a range of subjects, including which teammate (past or present) he deems as the best finisher.

Eventually, the former Newcastle United midfielder went with Alan Shearer, the Premier League's all-time top goalscorer. But three other names were mentioned before he came to that conclusion.

"I’ll probably have to go back a bit and say Alan Shearer, Robbie Fowler, Sergio Aguero and Harry Kane for England," he said, after being involved in Specsavers' Best Worst Team series.

"It’s tough to name just one, but with him scoring the most goals in Premier League history, I’d probably have to go with Alan Shearer."

SPORTbible's quickfire questions with James Milner

The quickest?

Probably Mo Salah. Kaoru Mitoma is quick off the mark as well.

The strongest?

Micah Richards, to be fair. When he was in a challenge and hyped up, he was ridiculously strong.

Most likely to forget their passport?

I’d say Divock Origi. I’m pretty sure it happened on more than one occasion. We actually had to bring in a fine if you forgot your passport because it started delaying planes and causing all sorts of issues. So I’ll go with Divock.

Most skilful?

There are a few, but I’d probably say Phillipe Coutinho.

Teacher’s pet?

That was a saying when you were younger — and it’s probably the worst saying in football because if you’re “busy”, it means you’re doing things right and have more chance of making it.

I could say myself, but ultimately, that mindset helped me have a career in football, so it’s a tough one to answer.

Best communicator?

Jordan Henderson is pretty good. Too good at times.

Best mate?

It’s tough to name just one. I played a lot of football with Joe Hart — England, Man City, under-21s — and I’m still close with him. Jordan Henderson, Andy Robertson and Adam Lallana at Liverpool as well. Those are probably the ones I’m closest to.

Worst fashion?

There could be a few! I’m not an expert on fashion, but Georginio Rutter is pretty lively with his outfits. Then again, he’s a lot younger than me, so some people might say it’s good fashion. It’d be interesting if I put some of his outfits on.

Future manager?

Adam Lallana. He’s really dived into his coaching. He hasn’t been finished that long but loves it, loves the game and is very knowledgeable.

Best scanner?

I’ll go with David Silva. He was a little magician in tight pockets. I always made runs for him — they could’ve been the worst runs in the world — but he always seemed to find you somehow. So I’d say David Silva.