Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi insists James Milner can play into his 40s.

Milner, 37, signed for Brighton last summer from Liverpool.

“We are happy to have him in our squad," De Zerbi told Brighton's website. “He has been unlucky because he's suffered injuries but now he is playing very well and without problems and helping us reach a higher level in our mentality and our quality of play.

“His attitude is great, his energy is great and I think he can play more years. His qualities are clear, he has won everything in football but if you watch him in training it's incredible. The age is on paper. On the pitch if you are 18 or 16 or 40, nothing changes."

Teddy Sheringham is the oldest outfield player to play in the Premier League at 40 years and 272 days.

And De Zerbi insisted: “Teddy Sheringham was an amazing player! But, yes, I think James can reach that point because physically he has no problem, and he has the passion. When I watch him on the training ground or in games, I forget his age."