Aston Villa star James Milner has revealed Alan Smith was his hero when the then young former Newcastle United midfielder broke into the Leeds United side. Milner claims Smith, who later moved to Manchester United, helped him when he first appeared for the first team at Elland Road, and now the same could be said of David Beckham with England. The 23-year-old suggests Beckham is always on hand to help the younger players learn.
Milner told Goal.com: “Smudge [Smith] was an inspiration to all the young lads because as a local lad he had made it and we all looked up to him,”
“He was always on hand for advice and lived and breathed Leeds United, and it was a big deal for us because we were local lads and are very proud of our roots.”
“I just got used to everything really quickly. I remember when I first stepped up to the reserves; David Batty was on one side of me and Olivier Dacourt on the other. I had to pinch myself and I kept on looking at them.”
“Every young player needs to know that it's all about learning from big players. It's easy to play well for a few games and then lose your way. I’ve seen players go out of the game after a couple of games because they think they've made it.”
Milner has recently established himself in Fabio Capello’s England squad, and although a rival for his position, the adaptable winger suggests David Beckham has really helped him settle in the international set-up.
Milner added: “David Beckham has longevity because he lives for the game of football and is always on hand to give advice. But on the flip side, he always takes advice on board.”
“I still ask for advice from the management and players. It’s important to take advice because it helps you grow as a player.”
“David’s ability cross the ball and his thirst for the game has not diminished at all and I for one have learned from his style of play by playing against him and playing with him for England.”
“You have to remember that John Terry is always very vocal in the dressing room and on the pitch along with Stevie Gerrard and many others.”
“I’m just happy to be in the team and getting a chance to play is always a good experience.”
“I don’t care about what position the manager wants me in, I just want to play and for me it’s all about making your mark and showing that you deserve to be there.”
“It wasn’t good to actually lose my last game with the under-21 team in the final, but if I can make my mark at senior level, I’ll be happy,”
“This is a new team for me and I just want to play to the best of my ability. I love pulling on my England shirt and make my parents and my friends and family proud.”