James Milner poised to surpass Gareth Barry’s Premier League appearance record
James Milner is set to challenge Gareth Barry’s longstanding record for the most appearances in Premier League history, with the 39-year-old midfielder needing just seven more games to overtake Barry’s total of 653 matches, reports BritPanorama.
Milner, currently playing for Brighton, has enjoyed a distinguished career that has included stints at Leeds, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City, and Liverpool. As he approaches this milestone, anticipation grows for the moment he surpasses his former teammate, Gareth Barry.
Reflecting on Milner’s impending achievement, Barry, now 44, expressed his pride in his own record during an interview. “Upset!” he joked when addressing the question of Milner breaking his record. “No, I’m really proud of the games I played.” He highlighted their shared history at Aston Villa, Manchester City, and the England national team, adding, “I know how hard he’s worked and he’s left no stone unturned.”
Barry further acknowledged Milner’s professionalism and dedication, asserting, “If James is to pass it, it’s going to someone that fully deserves it because he’s getting every ounce out of the career that he deserves.” He commended Milner’s on-field capabilities, noting, “That’s not to be underrated.”
As the summer of 2026 approaches, marking a significant timeline for Milner’s ascent in the records, discourse within football circles increasingly examines the potential for Milner to contribute to the national side during the upcoming World Cup. There is palpable interest in how he will fit within the evolving dynamics of the England squad and if he will make his mark as a player of longevity and consistent performance.
Meanwhile, Barry’s insights extend beyond Milner, touching upon other talents emerging in the Premier League. He observed Morgan Rogers’ rise at Aston Villa, noting that Rogers’ consistent performances could see him secure a key position in the upcoming World Cup, particularly as the team prepares for matches against Croatia, Ghana, and Panama.
Ultimately, as records are poised to shift and newer stars emerge, the narrative echoes a broader theme in football: the cyclical nature of legacy—where each milestone achieved by one is a reminder of past glories and the relentless march of time in sport. The rhythm of football, it seems, is as much about keeping up with records as it is about breaking them.
