Brendan Rodgers defends decision to appoint James Milner Liverpool's vice-captain

Second in command: Milner has been named Jordan Henderson's deputy
Charlie Doris7 August 2015

Brendan Rodgers has defended his decision to make James Milner Liverpool’s vice-captain despite only being at the club for two months.

Milner joined Liverpool from Manchester City earlier this summer and has impressed throughout pre-season gaining the appreciation of his manager and club teammates.

The England International has forged a reputation as a hardworking team player and his level of experience will be welcomed by rookie captain Jordan Henderson, who replaced Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard at the end of last season.

Rodgers told reporters: “He is someone I admired from the outside for a long time. He’s played at this level since he was 16 years of age and has played for some fantastic clubs.

“He went to Man City and did a great job and when the possibility he was going to be available, obviously you’re surprised but then you’re hoping you can get him to come to your club because he’s the type of player who gives everything.

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“His actual football talent has probably gone under the radar because he’s played around some outstanding talents, but this is a guy who works tirelessly at his game.

"He’s in here at 7.45am in the morning making sure he’s prepared for his training, getting all of his food supplements and getting everything correct before training – he’s in two-and-a-half hours before he trains and then does his work, gives his maximum. He prepares himself like an elite player should.

“He’s also got big character and a big mentality, and I felt we needed that in the team to the extent where he will be the vice-captain this year.

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“Jordan has been appointed the captain, but he’ll be a great ally for him because he leads by example. James is a wonderful, wonderful footballer and a big personality in the dressing room as well.
 
“His commitment, his qualities, how dynamic he is on the training field and how demanding he is of other players. That in terms of the captaincy and vice-captaincy can work really well for us,” Rodgers declared.
 
Henderson and Milner will get the first opportunity to test their new relationship against Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium on Monday night. 

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