Featured Image Credit: LFCTV/Alamy
Topics: James Milner, Liverpool, Football
Nasir Jabbar
James Milner leaves Liverpool having won the club's grueling lactate test EVERY season proving he's a physical specimen.
Milner enjoyed eight trophy-laden seasons at Liverpool following his switch from Manchester City in 2015.
He helped the Reds win the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup not to mention the prestigious Champions League.
Advert
The 37-year-old departs Anfield a club legend following his performances for the club. An incredible professional who prides himself on his unmatched work rate.
He's a machine, with his showings in the club's lactate test in pre-season summing up his amazing levels of fitness.
Milner won the brutal lactate test every year that he's been at Liverpool.
What is the lactate test? Well, players are tasked to run increasing distances at speed to test their aerobic endurance.
A sample of blood is taken from each player during checkpoints to gage their lactic acid level.
Advert
If their level is too high, they have to sit out. Last man standing wins. Survival of the fittest - quite literally.
Trent Alexander-Arnold spoke highly of Milner's fitness levels, stating he'll never see anyone as fit as him.
"We are a fit team, there are a lot of players who have great engines - Hendo, Gini, Robbo. But Milly, I don’t think I’ll ever see anyone as fit as him," he revealed.
"I remember a few years ago Kev Stewart would give him a run for his money in pre-season. But considering his age and how long he’s played for, to still be the fittest player in arguably the fittest team in the world, and by some margin, that takes some doing."
Advert
Milner, meanwhile, played in Liverpool's final game of the Premier League season as they drew 4-4 with Southampton.
After the game, he paid tribute to the club. He tweeted: "Always a privilege to play for you and a pleasure to enjoy success with you. Thanks for everything. YNWA."
Speaking before the game, Jurgen Klopp hailed the veteran midfielder's spell at Liverpool.
Advert
"Nothing positive that happened in the last seven and a half years would have happened without James Milner," he said. "I think I am the manager he played the most games for, and my English is not good enough to properly express the incredible respect I have for him."