Milner Approaches Milestone and Henderson Preaches Humility Against Leeds

Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Liverpool begin their title defense against Leeds United at Anfield today.

James Milner could play his 150th game for Liverpool today, if Klopp picks him to feature in the season opener. Of particular significance is that this milestone could be reached against his boyhood club, Leeds United, where Milner got his start nearly 20 years ago.

The reliable midfielder-slash-defender could also captain the Reds for the 50th time if he plays and the recovering Jordan Henderson does not. Klopp’s vision for the starting XI is a mystery right now, thanks to some surprising formation tweaking he did during the pre-season.

But speaking of our fearless captain, Hendo wrote about the upcoming season in the programme for tonight’s game.

In his message, Henderson preached diligence, focus, and humility as the team takes on the new challenge of defending their title.

“The gaffer talks about the importance of staying humble, as individuals, as a team and as a club. Part of staying humble is recognising that this season begins with everyone in exactly the same position,” he said.

“We have no advantage over Leeds today before a whistle is blown. If we want an advantage in the game – on the pitch – we have to go and earn it. As I said at the beginning of this column, everything is reset to zero.

“If we want to create special memories, they need to be earned, one challenge at a time, one sprint at a time, one save at a time and one battle at a time. It is right to be optimistic about what is ahead for us, but that feeling is built on a belief that we will indeed stay humble and stay focused.”

Very few Premier League clubs have managed back-to-back title wins, so if the Reds want to join that elite group, the first step comes today against Leeds.

Source: liverpooloffside.sbnation.com