James Philip Milner, professionally known as James Milner, born on 4 January 1986, is an English professional footballer who plays midfield for Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion. A highly versatile athlete, he has featured as a winger, midfielder, and full back. Milner boasts the most Premier League appearances ever and the longest top-flight career, topping Gareth Barry’s mark with 655 games as of 2 March 2026—spanning 24 years.
Before fame
As a teen, Milner shone in soccer, cricket, sprinting, and long-distance running. He launched his senior career at Leeds United in 2002.
Trivia
He gained fame for his playmaking skills, setting up goals and breaking through defenses.
Family life
Born in 1986 to Peter and Lesley Milner, who introduced him to soccer as a child.
Milner is married to Amy Fletcher. They have two children: a daughter and a son. He learned Spanish to connect with teammates, and in 2019 shared that he speaks it exclusively with his kids to help them learn.
Milner founded the James Milner Foundation, hosting an annual themed ball for charities. He avoids alcohol entirely.
Milner received the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2022 Birthday Honours for contributions to football and charity.