Garth Crooks says Liverpool’s James Milner is his player of the year

Follow us on Google Discover

Pundit praises James Milner’s contribution for Liverpool.

Garth Crooks has told BBC Sport that he believes James Milner has been the best player in the Premier League this season so far.

Milner scored in Liverpool’s 1-1 draw against Arsenal at the weekend.

The veteran midfielder has been consistently impressive for the Reds this season and this was his third goal of the campaign.

Crooks selected him in his team of the week and then took the praise a step further, saying he has been more impressive than Chelsea ace Eden Hazard.

He said: “James Milner has taken the early lead for my Footballer of the Year. I must say that Eden Hazard is a close second but the way Milner is leading Liverpool through some very tricky games is very impressive.

“Against Arsenal the ball couldn’t have dropped in front of a more cool-headed but utterly ruthless professional.

“Whatever happens between now and the end of the season I guarantee you Milner, 32, will be featuring in my TOTW on a few more occasions.”

Milner is hoping to win a Premier League title with a second club, having previously won a medal with Manchester City.

City are Liverpool’s fiercest challengers this season, currently two points ahead of the Reds, who are level with Hazard’s Chelsea.