James Milner Speaks Out Against Premier League’s Dressing Room Camera Initiative
The Premier League has recently unveiled an innovative initiative to introduce cameras into team dressing rooms for live broadcasts. However, veteran player James Milner is firmly against this idea. This development is part of a broader effort by the Premier League to enhance its broadcasting quality under a new television deal with Sky Sports and TNT Sports.
As Milner embarks on his 24th season in the Premier League, he shared his insights with The Athletic on how the landscape of football has evolved over the last two decades, particularly regarding young players and media coverage. For instance, Arsenal had to rapidly promote 18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri into the first team following an injury to Bukayo Saka last season. Remarkably, Nwaneri had already made his debut at the tender age of 15.
Another young talent, 15-year-old Max Dowman, has also made waves during Arsenal’s pre-season, showcasing his skills in front of enthusiastic crowds at the Emirates and while touring globally with the team.
Milner, now a seasoned professional at Brighton, emphasized the rigorous training youth players undergo nowadays. "They train three times a week from the age of eight," he explained. "They participate in tournaments worldwide, gaining invaluable experience in front of large audiences."
While he acknowledges the benefits of modern training facilities and support, Milner cautions against the pressures young athletes face. "With the money, social media, and hype surrounding them, it’s easy for them to become overwhelmed," he noted. "There’s no hiding from the spotlight, especially when you’re excelling at such a young age."
On the topic of cameras in dressing rooms, Milner was unequivocal: "That is an absolute no-go. It simply cannot happen."
As he continues his illustrious career, Milner is poised to break the record for the most Premier League seasons played, currently holding the record at 23. He’s also eyeing the title for the most Premier League appearances, sitting just 15 games behind Gareth Barry’s record of 653.
Milner made his league debut at just 16 years old with Leeds United back in 2002. Reflecting on the generational shift in the sport, he humorously noted that many of his current Brighton teammates weren’t even born when he started his career. "Fifteen of the lads weren’t born when I made my debut," he remarked. "It’s surreal to be playing alongside the children of former teammates."
Entering his 24th Premier League campaign, Milner recently paid tribute to his late former teammate Diogo Jota by wearing the retired No. 20 jersey in Jota’s honor. Should Milner surpass the Premier League appearance record, it would be a poignant and heartfelt milestone, marking not only his enduring legacy but also celebrating the memory of a cherished friend.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting season and the remarkable journey of James Milner in the Premier League!
