Brighton’s James Milner matches Gareth Barry’s record of 653 Premier League appearances, set to break it in the next game

BRIGHTON midfielder James Milner equalled the Premier League’s all-time appearance record on Wednesday.

The 40-year-old made his 653rd top-flight outing after coming on as a substitute in the first half against Aston Villa at Villa Park.

This milestone sees him draw level with former Aston Villa and Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry.

Of his historic tally, 435 appearances have been starts with 218 coming from the bench.

A Premier League champion with both Liverpool and Manchester City, Milner has featured 15 times in the league this season.

Thirteen of those appearances this campaign have been as a substitute.

Milner, who made his debut for Leeds United in 2002, is now poised to break the record outright.

He can set a new benchmark if he features in Brighton’s next league fixture at Brentford on February 21.

 The Sun Malaysia