James Milner will need to accept a cut to his wages if he is to extend his stay at Liverpool for a ninth season.
The veteran midfielder is arguably the most respected player in the current squad by coaches and players alike for his professionalism and ability to fill multiple roles when asked.
There has been an expectation that change is coming to a squad that has climbed the mountain on multiple fronts but is in need of a refresh.
Roberto Firmino is the first big name to say he is departing at seasons end, while it is highly expected that Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will follow.
The 37 year-old is not only valued for his playing ability but also as a true student of the game and there has been speculation that he will be part of Jurgen Klopp’s back room staff when he calls time on his career.
But all indications is that time is not yet on the horizon and Football Insider report that the club is preparing an extension albeit with a reduction in wages.
Last contract saw Milner’s weekly wage cut to £60,000 per week and it is believed that will be reduced further with any future deal.
Klopp is believed to be pushing the board to give Milner the extension believing that his ‘leadership and off field presence’ is invaluable to the atmosphere within the squad and that he will leave a huge void were he to depart in the summer.
Speaking recently about the veteran, Klopp was glowing in his praise.
“You can’t judge him normal for his age. He is 37, doesn’t look a day like this when he is in training.
“He’s a role model. I have told him, I can tell the whole world – nothing we have achieved in the last few years would have happened without James Milner, it’s as easy as that.”
For a player who has played more than 20 seasons at the highest level, it is a credit to himself that he has been available so readily this season, currently sitting on 32 appearances and in the three seasons before this campaign he has averaged 37 games per season.
It is that kind of availability that is a testament to his preparation and a shining example to those who are much younger.
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