Liverpool star James Milner has taken to Instagram to thank Leeds United supporters for their “warm reception” on Wednesday night, as the veteran midfielder helped his side demolish his boyhood club with a 6-0 win.
A brace apiece for Sadio Mane and Mo Salah, as well as goals for centre-backs Virgil van Dijk and Joel Matip saw Liverpool close the gap at the top of the table between themselves and Manchester City to just three points.
While Liverpool were excellent, it was another dismal defensive outing from the Yorkshire club – who have now conceded 10 goals in their last two games. Leeds have conceded a huge 56 goals in just 25 league games.
That is two more than the entirety of last season, with 13 league games still to play. The Whites sit three points above Burnley, who remain in 18th place, though Sean Dyche’s side have two games in hand over Leeds.
Despite all that, Leeds fans gave Milner – who came on with 13 minutes of normal time left to play – a rapturous reception. Milner of course, came through the ranks at Leeds to play 53 times earlier on in his career.
Milner message to Leeds fans after heavy Liverpool defeat
The 61-time England international is expected to sign a new deal at Anfield, with his current contract – worth £140,000 a week (Spotrac) – due to expire this summer. There has been consistent talk of a potential return to Leeds.
While that now looks unlikely given he is due to sign a new Liverpool deal, the connection between Leeds and Milner is still strong. He sent a message to Leeds fans on Instagram – thanking them for their warm reception.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
