Roberto De Zerbi believes James Milner has the passion, attitude and energy to keep playing until he becomes the Premier League’s all-time record appearance maker.

Milner, who turns 38 on Thursday, will edge closer to Gareth Barry’s tally of 652 appearances when he faces West Ham, and move level with second-placed Ryan Giggs on 632.

His Brighton contract expires in the summer, though the deal includes an option for an extra 12 months which, if triggered, would give Milner the chance to beat Barry’s record. 

‘He’s won everything in football, but if you watch him in training sessions, he is helping us to reach higher levels.’

James Milner will draw level with Ryan Giggs for the second most Premier League appearances

Roberto De Zerbi believes Milner can play on for ‘years’ and chase down Gareth Barry’s record

Meanwhile, De Zerbi expressed surprise that winger Kaoru Mitoma was included in Japan’s Asian Cup squad, saying: ‘My staff told me Mitoma needs four to six weeks with his ankle injury and it’s difficult to think he can play in the Asian Cup. 

‘But I am a fan of Mitoma, so if he can play for his national team I am very happy, very proud.’