Milner is in awe of ‘brilliant’ Robertson

LIVERPOOL vice captain James Milner has hailed the impact ‘brilliant’ Scotland international Andy Robertson is making on and off the pitch at Anfield. After a slow start to his career on Merseyside, the ex-Dundee United and Hull defender has made the left-back position his own after taking advantage of an injury to Alberto Moreno. Robertson has become a fans’ favourite after memorable displays in victories over Manchester City in the Premier League and Porto in the Champions League. His last appearance for Jurgen Klopp’s side saw his name chanted once again from the Anfield stands in a 5-0 win over Crystal Palace. Milner, 32, spent much of last season performing as an auxiliary left-back for Liverpool and believes Robertson, set to win his 22nd cap tonight against Hungary, deserves enormous credit for his outstanding displays this season. ‘Robbo has been brilliant,’ said the 61-times capped England midfielder. ‘It’s my job as an elder statesman at Liverpool to speak to the younger guys. But I don’t think Andy needs a lot of advice. He’s played the position a lot longer than my one season there. ‘He had to bide his time at the start. He and Alberto are pushing each other for that spot. ‘I’ll help where I can but Andy’s a good player. Sometimes you just see him going forward but he does some great work defensively, too. ‘He’s a great lad to have around the dressing room. He’s a bubbly character. It’s fantastic.’ Milner did not know too much about Robertson before his £8million arrival from Hull last summer but praised his ability to hit the ground running. ‘I knew of Andy but you don’t really appreciate a player until you see him up close,’ said Milner. ‘Coming to Liverpool, sometimes it takes you a season or 18 months to show your best form, so I’ve been impressed with how he’s fitted in.’