29 May 2023 , 00:00
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James Milner has hinted that Liverpool fans can expect more good times in the near future after playing his final game for the club on Sunday.
Captain Jordan Henderson says that it's the "end of an era" with long-time team-mate Milner, 37, departing alongside Roberto Firmino, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Milner, however, seems to reckon that Reds supporters won't have to wait very long to witness more of the success which he enjoyed during his eight-year stint.
After playing all 90 minutes of Liverpool's madcap 4-4 draw with Southampton on the final day of the Premier League season, the long-serving midfielder - who's set to join Brighton on a free transfer when his deal at Anfield expires next month - sent a parting message to fans.
"I'm sure it's not the end of the era now, but to be part of the building for this team, it's fantastic," Milner told the BBC.
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"Obviously it's a weird feeling when you've been somewhere for so long and shared the times I've had with this dressing room and these fans, I had an amazing send off from them today.
"It's been like that ever since I have been there. It's obviously a strange feeling but all good things come to an end. I've had an amazing time here, achieved a lot, but it has to end at some point, unfortunately."
James Milner waved goodbye to Liverpool at Southampton (ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)The former Manchester City, Aston Villa, Newcastle and Leeds star was given a fond farewell by the section of adoring away supporters at St Mary's on Sunday.
A large banner reading 'Milner 7 legend' was unfurled and the veteran posted a photo of it on social media with the caption: "Always a privilege to play for you and a pleasure to enjoy success with you. Thanks for everything. YNWA."
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Milner and the three others following him out of the Anfield exit door were then thanked by Liverpool skipper Henderson, who tweeted: "The end of an era. Shared some of the best moments of my life with these lads.
"Memories and a brotherhood that will last a lifetime. Good luck to you all on your journey, it's been an amazing ride. Massive thank you to the fans for your support this season."
Earlier this month, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp summed up his feelings on Milner. "He knows how highly I value him," Klopp said on Friday.
"He is an incredible part of this team and I would love to work together with him even longer.
"I said a couple of times nothing positive that happened in the last seven and a half years would have happened without James Milner."
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