Former Liverpool player Xherdan Shaqiri sends message to ‘machine’ James Milner after signing new Brighton deal

During his time at Liverpool, Milner won everything. A favorite of manager Jurgen Klopp, the long-time vice-captain often played bad cop to Jordan Henderson’s good cop.

Since moving to Brighton, however, it hasn’t all worked out for Milner. Injured for much of the season, the 38-year-old managed just 20 appearances for the South Coast.

However, Milner has always been praised for what he brought to Liverpool both off the pitch and on it. And with that in mind, it’s no surprise to see him sign up for another year at Brighton. Following the news, some of his former Liverpool teammates reacted.

James Milner extends contract with Brighton

Whether Liverpool have missed Milner this season depends on who you ask. It is a topic that has been debated. He certainly could have used his knowledge and experience on a few occasions at least.

Klopp apparently wanted to keep the veteran around, but in the end it was probably the right decision to call it a day.

Still, Milner made a big impression on almost everyone at Liverpool. And after taking to Instagram on Tuesday to celebrate his new contract, some of his old colleagues made that clear.

“Delighted to extend my stay @officialbhafc,” Milner wrote. “I enjoyed playing with the boys in a historic season for the club. Very frustrated that I have been injured for the last few months, but I am working hard to be fit again for the start of next season and hungrier than ever to contribute to the club’s success.”

With Milner set for his 22nd season as a professional, Xherdan Shaqiri summed up the thoughts of many. “Car,” Liverpool’s title winner wrote alongside a series of emojis.

Unsurprisingly, Henderson was also quick to comment, leaving applause and a love heart, while Joe Gomez also left a response. Keep it up Milly!

Where Xherdan Shaqiri is playing now

While it’s great to see Milner continue his career beyond Liverpool, seeing Shaqiri on commentary also raised the question of what the Swiss is up to these days.

In many ways, Shaqiri was a slightly underrated member of Klopp’s all-conquering side. Despite winning the Premier League, Champions League, Super Cup and Club World Cup with Liverpool, he was never a key player.

Since he left in 2021, the reasons may have become clearer. Shaqiri joined Lyon from the Reds but lasted just six months in France before moving to MLS.

Now in his third season with the Chicago Fire, the 32-year-old is one of the division’s highest-paid players. To date, Shaqiri has played 69 times for The Fire, scoring 16 goals.

Still international with Switzerland, we will no doubt see him light up this summer’s European Championship with a crazy goal.

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