MILNER IS OVER MID LIFE CRISIS

JAMES MILNER is keen to make up for lost time after admitting he felt frustrated at being left out by Liverpool at the start of the season.

The 31-year-old (above) was delighted when boss Jurgen Klopp switched him from left-back to his favoured midfield position, only to be disappointed when he began the campaign on the bench.

The former England star has started the Reds’ last three games in midfield and hopes he is playing well enough to persuade Klopp to give him a run there.

“At the start of the season, the manager pulled me in and said he was looking at me more in midfield, which I was obviously delighted with,” said Milner.

“Then I didn’t play too much after that and it was very frustrating. Every player wants to play football and that’s what I want to do.

“The manager picks the team and if it isn’t happening you have to try to force your way in. When you do get the chance, try and take it.

“I’ve played the last three games and I have to stake a claim to that shirt. We have so many games and a talented squad of players, so there is going to be competition, changes, injuries, suspensions, and things like that.

“But as an individual you just want to get that chance to perform.”

And Milner said he felt like a square peg in a round hole at left-back.

“Last season, I was asked to do a job and I did that as well as I could,” he added.

“I said at the time I didn’t enjoy playing there, but the team always comes first and you do what’s asked of you.

“I definitely found myself enjoying my football again in midfield this year.

“I just want to get out there and contribute to the team as much as I can.”