I had the chance to play with Alan Shearer to join the list of

In the words of James Milner, "I had the chance to play with Alan Shearer to join the list of class players I'd played with at a young age at Leeds—the Vidukas, Smiths, Kewells, and Woodgates," we hear the profound gratitude of a player who recognizes the importance of mentorship and learning from greatness. Milner’s reflection on his early career is not merely a statement about playing alongside talented individuals; it is a recognition of the privilege of sharing the pitch with those who embody the qualities of excellence and commitment. His words speak to the powerful influence of surrounding oneself with individuals who challenge, inspire, and elevate one’s own abilities, forging a path toward growth and achievement.

The list of names Milner mentions—Vidukas, Smiths, Kewells, and Woodgates—are more than just teammates; they are symbols of the legacy and tradition that Milner inherited as a young player. In ancient times, the concept of mentorship was central to the development of young warriors and scholars alike. Plato, the great philosopher, studied under Socrates, and later passed down his knowledge to students like Aristotle, who would go on to shape the course of history. In much the same way, Milner’s early years at Leeds were shaped by the wisdom and experience of the great players around him, who helped forge his own career and instilled in him the lessons of dedication, discipline, and teamwork.

Consider the story of the ancient hero Achilles, who, despite his immense strength and prowess in battle, was mentored by Chiron, the wise centaur. Under Chiron’s guidance, Achilles not only honed his fighting skills but also learned the virtues of leadership and honor. Just as Achilles’ early experiences were shaped by a mentor of great renown, Milner’s career was forged by his early exposure to players of exceptional talent and class. These experiences helped shape him into the player he would become, much as the greatest warriors of myth were molded by the legends who came before them.

The mention of Alan Shearer, a legend of the sport, is particularly significant. Shearer, known for his incredible goal-scoring record, is a figure who epitomizes greatness in football. Milner’s chance to play with Shearer is not just about the opportunity to share the field with a footballing icon; it is about learning from someone who had mastered the art of the game. Just as a young artist might study under a renowned master, or a young philosopher might sit at the feet of a great teacher, Milner had the chance to observe and absorb from one of the game’s finest. The wisdom gained from such experiences cannot be overstated, for it is in the presence of greatness that we come to understand what is possible for ourselves.

Milner’s reflection also speaks to the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Football, like any other great endeavor, is not an individual pursuit but a collective one. The names Milner lists—Viduka, Smith, Kewell, Woodgate—represent the strength of a team where every player brings their own unique gifts and abilities to the table. In ancient cultures, this sense of collective effort was a vital part of society. Consider the Spartan warriors, whose strength came not from individual glory, but from their ability to fight together as one. Each warrior was trained to understand their role in the collective whole, and only by working in unison could they achieve their shared goals. Milner’s reflection on his teammates speaks to this same unity—that true success in any field is achieved through collaboration, trust, and shared purpose.

Moreover, Milner’s words remind us that excellence is contagious. To play alongside players of great skill and character is to be constantly pushed toward higher standards, to be forced to rise above one’s own limitations. Just as the great sculptors of antiquity, like Phidias, learned from and were inspired by the artists who came before them, so too did Milner learn from those who paved the way for him. The greatness of his teammates became the benchmark by which he measured his own success. And in turn, Milner’s growth would influence the next generation of players, creating a cycle of inspiration and improvement that transcends time.

The lesson we take from Milner’s reflection is clear: to surround oneself with greatness is one of the surest paths to personal and collective growth. Whether in sports, business, or life, the people we choose to learn from and collaborate with shape our journey and our success. Mentorship, whether formal or informal, is a tool that helps unlock our full potential. Just as Milner’s career was shaped by the influences of those around him, so too can we shape our own lives by seeking out and learning from those who inspire us to become better versions of ourselves.

In our own lives, we must seek out the mentors, the role models, and the collaborators who will challenge us to rise to our highest potential. Let us not be content with mediocrity, but strive to learn from the best, whether in our careers, our personal relationships, or our pursuits of excellence. Just as James Milner learned from those around him, so too can we surround ourselves with those whose greatness inspires us to become great ourselves. The path to success is never walked alone, but in the company of those who elevate us to new heights.