James Milner
**
Brighton & Hove Albion’s veteran midfielder James Milner has expressed optimism about the club’s potential for the upcoming season. After a 2024-25 campaign that saw Albion topping the injury list, Milner is hopeful that a cleaner bill of health will enable them to surpass last season’s eighth-place finish. He highlighted the impressive late-season form of Brajan Gruda and Mats Wieffer as a testament to the team’s potential.
James Milner said: “I don’t think injuries were ever used as an excuse. If you look at the data, it was a difficult season for us. The season was a solid one when you take that into account. A season in, the manager has put his ideas in. Players are getting used to the Premier League. You look at how someone like Gruda finished and Mats Wieffer finished the season so strong. I’ve done it within England and moving clubs is not easy. I’m excited for these guys this season and the other signings we have made. I think it’s an exciting time for the club, another exciting season. Obviously the manager has had another season under his belt. He will have taken a lot from being in the Premier League last season and I think we are in a good place at this point in pre-season.”
Milner’s comments reflect a positive outlook, emphasizing the club’s readiness for the new season. Mats Wieffer, who adapted to a right-back role, and Brajan Gruda, who excelled as a No.10, were pivotal in Brighton’s strong finish last season. Wieffer’s campaign was initially hampered by injuries, while Gruda joined late in the summer and initially struggled to find his footing. However, both players showcased their potential towards the end of the season, with Gruda notably scoring against Wolves and delivering a standout performance in the victory over Liverpool.
Milner himself played a crucial role last pre-season, captaining the team through friendlies, including a trip to Japan. Although his on-field contributions were limited due to injuries, he provided valuable guidance off the pitch. As the new season approaches, Milner is gradually regaining fitness after a nine-month absence and is eager to contribute to the team’s success.
He said: “It’s very early but so far the boys have looked strong. The tempo is very good and it’s a different feel to last year where you are learning a new style of play and the manager is getting his ideas over. This year we are just topping up those ideas, refreshing those and adding things to it. I’m not 100% quite yet but I have been training hard in the off-season. Nine months out is a long time out. All the things that happened in the past year or so. I am feeling quite good to be fair.”
Milner’s positive assessment of the squad’s current state and the manager’s growing experience in the Premier League suggest that Brighton is well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the new season. With a focus on building upon last season’s foundation, the team is poised for another exciting campaign.
About The Author
