Although not a regular starter last campaign, Milner still made 42 appearances for Manchester City, including a start in the FA Cup victory over Stoke City.
While he is not a flair player who really gets the crowd going, the England international boasts a fantastic work ethic and steely determination that makes him such a fine asset to have in the squad.
His versatility is what sets him out from the rest. He is able to play on the flanks, in the middle or even slot in at full-back if necessary. Milner is just the type of player Mancini loves to have at his disposal, as demonstrated with the inclusion of Pablo Zabaleta, Yaya Toure and Vincent Kompany.
|Image courtesy of guardian.co.uk|
One thing you know you will get with Milner is 100% commitment. The former Newcastle United man will run through a brick wall for the team, and that is why City fans love him.
It will be interesting to see what sort of role the England U21 record cap holder is deployed in this season. With City competing in the Champions League and domestic competitions, Milner could find himself starting more games than he did last term, due to the physical demands on the rest of the squad.
His aggressive style will set him in good stead on City's European adventures, as will his direct approach, as continental defenders tend to struggle when the game is taken to them.
There is no doubt about it, Milner will be a key player for the club this season - providing he stays injury free. Mancini would not have gambled so much money on a player who would be making appearances off the bench week in week out. He is definitely a big part of City's future, starting this season.
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