James Milner anticipates weird Leeds United feeling should Premier League return occur

James Milner has admitted that it would be weird to play against Leeds United as a Premier League outfit but insists the top flight would be a much better place with the club in it.

The Thorp Arch academy graduate left West Yorkshire in 2004 following the Whites relegation amid financial troubles around the turn of the century.

The 34-year-old now plys his trade with recently crowned Premier League champions Liverpool after a stellar career that also includes a Champions League winners medal.

Milner was handed his first team debut at the age of just 16 in November 2002 by United and went on to make 54 appearances for the club in total before his departure.

Leeds are currently on course to end a 16-year absence from England's elite this season as they sit top of the Championship six points clear of third-place with just five games of the campaign remaining.

Milner, though, admits that it will be an odd experience to take on his former side in league action and refused to rule out the possibility of a romantic return to Elland Road.

"You never know in football what's around the corner," Milner told Sky Sports over a move back to his home town club.

"I just want to contribute and win as many trophies as I can for Liverpool and add to the great history here.

"I'm biased, but I think the Premier League will be a better place for Leeds in it, and it will be weird to play against them next season.

"It seems a long time ago since I pulled on that shirt, you look back at photos and see how big the shirts were back then.

"Plenty has changed since then, unfortunately I was part of the team that got relegated and they haven't come back and recovered just yet.

"It would be great to see them back next season and their fans are incredible as well."