Milton relishes new challenge (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Milton relishes new challenge

RUSSELL Milton's 18-year footballing career has seen him play alongside greats such as former Brazilian skipper Socrates and ex-England and Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson.

Now, as his career enters its last lap, Milton has accepted a new challenge at Toolstation League Division One new boys Bradford Town. But he insists he still has the hunger.

The 36-year-old former Arsenal and Cheltenham midfielder will only play a bit-part for Mark Hodkinson's side, due to media and coaching commitments, but hopes his experience will be a valuable asset.

He took a back seat from the game after leaving Southern League side Bath City but sees this opportunity at Bradford as a way of keeping up his fitness and staying in the game he loves.

Milton could make his debut in tomorrow's home match against Longwell Green with Bradford hoping to protect their five match unbeaten run.

He said: "I am commentating on the radio for Cheltenham Town matches every other week but when I am available I will look to play. Hopefully the players could learn something from me.

"Bradford have already signed Steve Tweddle and maybe me signing for them could be another way of raising their profile. It will also keep me fit."

Milton was a trainee at Arsenal between the ages of 14-18 before earning a three-year professional contract at Highbury.

He made over 100 reserve team appearances for the Gunners and made the first team bench for several cup ties.

"I played with David Rocastle, Kevin Campbell and Paul Merson," he said.

"George Graham was manager at the time and Niall Quinn and Charlie Nicholas were there."

In 1990 Milton left Highbury to play in Hong Kong, where he played alongside Socrates, and Japan.

He then returned to England to play for Dover in the Conference before joining Cheltenham for £4,000 in 1997, for the most successful six years in his career.

Milton was at Whaddon Road as Cheltenham's remarkable success story began as they rose from the Conference to Division Two.

He also supplied the cross for the winning goal in their FA Trophy triumph in 1998 and won the player of the season award in their first season in Division Three.

He went on to make 108 league appearances for the Robins, scoring 14 league goals, before signing for Bath City. He also set up a soccer school which he runs in association with Arsenal.

He said: "I have had a great career and have enjoyed every minute of it.

"The media stuff is the next stage for me but I am delighted Bradford have given me the chance to continue playing."