Joining Aston Villa "wouldn't be an issue" for 55-goal ace amid "interesting" link - journalist

Liverpool midfielder James Milner would add “experience and leadership” to Aston Villa’s squad if he returns to Villa Park this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Milner made his Premier League debut for his boyhood club Leeds back in 2002, and two decades later, he is still going strong at Anfield.

Having turned 36 last month, Milner is now in the twilight of his career, and his contract at Liverpool is set to expire in June.

However, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has reportedly told the club’s board that he wants Milner to stay with the club for another year, suggesting that talks over a new deal could be imminent.

The 61-cap international appears to have options elsewhere, though, with reports claiming that Steven Gerrard wants to bring his former England teammate, who has scored 55 Premier League goals, to the Midlands.

Milner had two spells at Villa in the early part of his career, making 126 appearances for the club.

O’Rourke has hinted that he could be a useful addition to Gerrard’s side, even at this late stage in his playing days.

Reacting to news of Villa’s interest in the midfielder, O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “James Milner is another interesting one. He’d bring so much experience and leadership if he was to make the move to Villa Park. He’s already been at the club before as well, so it wouldn’t be an issue for Milner as well.”

After a lengthy spell away from the club, Ashley Young returned to Villa last summer. He has struggled to make a major impact over the last six months, though, as he has often had to settle for a place on the bench.

With this in mind, it could be argued that signing an ageing former player like Milner could bring about a similar outcome.

On the flip side, Milner still has