Liverpool's James Milner focused on adding to medal collection in Europa League final against Sevilla

By PA Sport

Image: James Milner says it will be a "massive achievement" if Liverpool win the Europa League

Liverpool vice-captain James Milner says the squad is focused on winning Europa League medals rather than the lure of Champions League qualification.

The England international has two Premier League titles and an FA Cup to his name from his time at Manchester City but is keen to add to that tally in Basel against defending champions Sevilla in the Europa League final.

Victory in Switzerland would guarantee Liverpool a Champions League place for next season but that is not what interests the 30-year-old, who moved to Anfield last summer confident he could add to his medal haul.

"I think it is a nice bonus but I don't think we've thought about the Champions League that much, it is all about winning trophies," he said.

Jurgen Klopp insists Liverpool don't need luck to beat Sevilla in the Europa League final

"The only thing on our minds at this time is lifting that trophy and adding to the great history of this club - if that puts us in the Champions League then great.

Advertisement

"But it is all about looking back at the end of your career and seeing what you have won. To win a European trophy is a massive achievement.

"It is important to be in the top four and everyone wants to play in the Champions League with the benefits of that, but ultimately if you look back on your career and you haven't won anything, but you've played in the Champions League for six years, there's not a lot to look at in your cabinet.

Also See:

It is all about looking back at the end of your career and seeing what you have won. To win a European trophy is a massive achievement.
James Milner

"I had a tough decision to make last year but I have thoroughly enjoyed my first season here.

"It is a massive club which is used to winning trophies and I wanted to come here and add to that.

"We've got to two cup finals this year and unfortunately we've had a losing experience (against Manchester City in the Capital One Cup) but we can turn that around and end the season successfully.

Liverpool v Sevilla preview

Liverpool face Sevilla in the Europa League final in Basel on Wednesday

"It has been a long road to get to this final and we've managed to beat a lot of good teams to be here but it is all about finishing the job now.

"Hopefully it will be the first of many trophies for this squad and the manager."

Outbrain