Hurzeler added: “He was the leader, he communicated, he has a good understanding of the game, he knows his game, he is reliable. He waited long for this moment and we are happy for him.

“Not only experience but also quality. He was one of the best in training and I keep saying, ‘If you train well and keep pushing, you will get the chance’.

“He always puts the team first, always puts the club first. He is not only a role model on the pitch, but beside the pitch.

“On the pitch, he gives everything. I can never remember a day he didn’t give 100% effort. He is a role model.”

Wayne Rooney, who played 37 times for England alongside Milner, told BBC Sport: “Milly deserves to break the record. I think it’s well known how professional he is and how hard he’s worked all throughout his career.

“It’s an incredible record and it just shows that when you work hard, it pays off. He’s 40 now and players are playing until they’re a bit older nowadays.

“We’ve seen that with [Cristiano] Ronaldo as well. It wouldn’t surprise me if he goes on for another two or three years.”