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Milner seals return to Villa Park

Friday, August 29, 2008

Aston Villa FC have finally ended their long pursuit of winger James Milner after Premier League rivals Newcastle United FC accepted a figure in the region of €12.5m for the England Under-21 international.

James Milner celebrates a goal against new club Villa last January
James Milner celebrates a goal against new club Villa last January ©Getty Images

Loan spell
The 22-year-old winger has signed a four-year contract at Villa Park after undergoing a medical this morning, sealing a return to the side having spent the 2005/06 season on loan at the Midlands outfit. Milner proved a big success during that spell, and came close to penning a permanent deal in August 2006 when Newcastle pulled out of the transfer at the eleventh hour. Villa manager Martin O'Neill has now got his man, however, and Milner could make his debut against Liverpool FC on Sunday. Villa were drawn against PFC Litex Lovech in the UEFA Cup first round earlier today, with the first leg in Bulgaria on 18 September.

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