After starring in Newcastle’s 3-2 Carling Cup victory over Coventry City at the Ricoh Arena last night, James Milner has shocked the Toon Army by submitting a written transfer request.
The England under 21 winger has been linked with a move away from St James’ Park all summer despite recently signing an improved contract with the club. But it seems he has decided his future lies away from the North East and it could prompt Aston Villa boss Martin O’Neill to make his interest in Milner concrete by submitting a bid.
Newcastle have issued a club statement on their official website, stating that “the club is very disappointed that James sees his footballing future as being away from St James’ Park. He is a valued member of the squad and it is only a year ago that he signed an improved long-term contract.
“We have yet to receive an offer for James that has matched our valuation of him.”
That valuation is thought to be around £9 million and Milner will be hoping that O’Neill will make a bid to prize him to the Midlands.
The news comes after Milner created the opening goal then scored the second for the Geordies last night and despite being pegged back by Clinton Morrison and a stoppage time equaliser from Scott Dann, substitute Michael Owen fired another message to England boss Fabio Capello by netting the winner in extra time.
Afterwards United boss Kevin Keegan was quick to lavish praise on Milner, saying that the winger is a “wonderful athlete and great trainer”. He also commented that Milner’s form could see him propel himself into Capello’s thoughts.
Sadly for Keegan, it seems certain that by the close of the transfer window next week, the former Leeds United player will striving to achieve his international ambitions away from Newcastle.
Ross Hart.
