653 And Growing: James Milner Marks Premier League History With Record Number of Appearances
Milner matched Gareth Barry’s record of 653 Premier League appearances, having played for six different PL clubs; one additional game will establish a new record.
‘Dull’ James Milner? Nope, it’s ‘Evergreen’ James Milner
The apparently-unbreakable Englishman just matched history — and he’s not finished yet.
The Brighton midfielder made his 653rd Premier League appearance on Wednesday night, entering as a substitute in the 22nd minute against Aston Villa to take over for the injured Carlos Baleba.
That one stride onto the field allowed him to equal Gareth Barry’s enduring record for the highest number of appearances in Premier League history.
For years, Barry’s number seemed unreachable. Milner requires only one more appearance to claim sole possession of the top spot.
It also has a sense of symmetry. Milner and Barry played together on the field 130 times in the Premier League while at Aston Villa and Manchester City.
Barry stepped down in 2020 at the age of 39, although he temporarily returned from retirement last season to play for local amateur team Hurstpierpoint, even netting a goal in a 2-2 tie.
Milner, on the other hand, continues to perform at the top level.At 40 years old, he is currently in his 24th season in the Premier League — the longest career duration in the history of the competition.
He debuted for Leeds United in 2002 and has since played for Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool, and currently Brighton.
His trophy collection features two Premier League championships with City and one with Liverpool.
Throughout his career, he has amassed 94 league appearances for Newcastle, 147 for City, and 230 for Liverpool, along with extended periods at other clubs.
While his contributions at Brighton this season have primarily been as a late-game substitute, having made 15 league appearances in 2025-26 so far, his importance extends beyond just the time on the field.
“Tonight is a significant evening for James.” “Brighton manager Fabian Huerzeler stated that it’s not by chance he continues to demonstrate his ability to perform in the Premier League.”
“It’s a joy to collaborate with him and have him on our team as a player and an example to follow.”
Another showing, and the record belongs solely to him.
✅FAQs(Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What record has Milner matched?
James Milner has matched Gareth Barry’s record of 653 Premier League appearances.
Q2: When did James Milner reach 653 appearances?
James Milner reached the milestone after coming on as a substitute against Aston Villa.
Q3: How many clubs has James Milner played for in the Premier League?
James Milner has played for Leeds United, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Brighton.
Q4: How close is James Milner to breaking the record?
James Milner needs just one more Premier League appearance to become the outright record holder.
Q5: How many Premier League seasons has James Milner played?
James Milner is currently playing in his 24th Premier League season.
