Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder James Milner, 40, became the most capped player in the English Premier League by making his 654th appearance in a 2-0 away win against Brentford in the 27th round on Saturday.
Milner, who debuted in the Premier League back in 2002 as a 16-year-old in Leeds United’s jersey, and during his career also played for Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City and Liverpool, with this performance separated himself from Gareth Barry, with whom he shared the record until now.
Otherwise, Milner played until the 90th minute when he was replaced due to injury, and the goals for Brighton were scored by Gomez in the 30th minute and Welbeck in the first minute of stoppage time in the first half.
A special reception for the 🆕 Premier League record holder 👏
🫡 @JamesMilner pic.twitter.com/cdUCReJY9M
— Premier League (@premierleague) February 21, 2026
Brighton are now 12th in the table with 34 points, six behind seventh-placed Brentford. In the remaining two games played at the same time, Aston Villa and Chelsea failed at home, playing 1-1 with Leeds United and Burnley, respectively.
The third Villa now has 51 points, two less with a game more than the second Manchester City, while Chelsea is fourth with 45 points, which is the same as the fifth Manchester United who have played less matches. Leeds are 15th with 31 points and Burnley 19th with 19. Arsenal lead with 58 points.
Brighton welcomes Forrest in the next game, while Brentford will face Burnley at Turf Moor.
(Hina | Photo: Brighton & Hove Albion FC)
