Milner ‘gutted for the supporters’ as Liverpool prepare for ‘very special’ trophy lift

James Milner admits he is ‘gutted for the supporters’ as Liverpool prepare for a ‘very special’ trophy presentation following their Premier League title triumph.

The champions will finally get their hands on the Premier League trophy following the club’s final home fixture of the season against Chelsea on Wednesday night, with a podium installed in the Kop stand of Anfield ahead of a long-awaited ceremony on Merseyside.

The occasion will mark the official coronation of Jurgen Klopp’s side after they were crowned as champions of England for the first time in three decades in record-breaking fashion, and while Milner already has two titles to his name, he admits it will be ‘special’ to see the league title finally return to Anfield.

“It will be special, very special,” Milner told Liverpool’s matchday programme. “It was the reason I signed here in the first place and I’m sure it’s the case for the other lads as well – a club of this size and with its history.

“The fact the wait had been so long meant it was a massive challenge to try and end it and create some of our own history.

“You can see what it means to everyone. The night it was confirmed we were champions, you could see the emotional impact. Not just on us and the manager but the supporters and the past players – the legends. Sir Kenny Dalglish, Steven Gerrard, so many of them.

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“When they were messaging and telling us congratulations, you know they really meant it and they were properly made-up. That was great.

“What this team has achieved means a lot to a lot of people and it’s special to part of something like that.”

The continued threat of the coronavirus pandemic means that no Liverpool supporters will be able to witness the presentation inside of Anfield, and Milner admits he is ‘gutted’ for the Reds supporters who will not be permitted to share the moment in person.

“I’m gutted for the supporters, in truth. More than us as players. That said, it is what it is and during this period so many people have made far greater sacrifices than footballers and football fans. People across society have had far bigger hardships, so perspective is important.

“Look, we’ll make the best of it. It’s not that the fans aren’t going to be watching. I’m sure every Liverpool fan, no matter where they are in the world, will make sure they’re watching.

“So they’ll be with us even if they’re not there. We’re still lifting it for them and ourselves. I’ve no idea how it will feel until it happens, but it won’t detract from the achievement and what this team and staff have worked so hard for.”

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