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Micah Richards, who played in the same Manchester City team as Milner 61 times, plus twice for England, told BBC Sport: "James is the nicest guy ever. The hardest-working pro I've ever worked with, he deserves everything he's ever got in life.
"I played against him when he was at Newcastle and I always knew he was a top player, even from his time at Leeds when he was coming through with Aaron Lennon and everyone used to talk about him.
"To see his progression going from Leeds to Newcastle, then Villa, gets his move to Man City, wins the Premier League twice, goes to Liverpool, wins the league again... It's just an incredible career in terms of attitude, application and ability.
"He can play left, right, centre. His shooting technique is amazing as well. I can't be happy enough for him."
Chris Sutton told Final Score: "Unbelievable. Still playing as an outfield player at 40 is a testament to his dedication and attitude.
"I always remember him being super fit as a youngster, but to have the career he has had, he is a really special player and still contributing."
Sam Parkin, a team-mate of Milner's while on loan at Swindon in 2003, added: "He came to Swindon on loan, we played about a dozen occasions together.
"He was too fit - he didn't join in with the apres [going out] with the League One lads at that time. He was so professional and so driven. He was a tricky winger in those days."
Milner has not played regularly since joining Brighton in 2023 and only three of his 16 Premier League appearances have been from the start.
Barry, who was Milner's team-mate at Villa and City for 134 of their 653 games, has held the record since September 2017.
Milner, who won 61 caps for England, won the Premier League title twice with Manchester City and once with Liverpool.
He also won the FA Cup and the League Cup with both clubs - plus the Champions League with the Reds.
Milner's contract runs until the end of the season.
