James Milner hinted that Liverpool's hierarchy may have overruled the wishes of manager Jurgen Klopp in refusing to offer the midfielder a new contract.
The 37-year-old is set to leave the club as a free agent, after joining the Reds from Manchester City in 2015.
During his time at Anfield, Milner became one of the side's most decorated players, winning a raft of silverware including the Champions League and the Premier League trophies.
Whilst the midfielder is hungry for new challenges, an interview with LFCTV revealed that Milner was still very much part of Klopp's plans for next season before a decision was taken for the player to move on.
Milner told the club's channel: 'It would be a shame to stop when you've got a bit of life in you.
'Jurgen Klopp is a pretty good manager and the fact he still wanted me here and said I can do a job is pleasing.
'I haven't started a load of games this year, but I feel like I have contributed when I have been asked to,' the player added.
'The club obviously made their decision on that. It's nice I'm in a position where the manager wanted me to stay, but it got to the point where I got to terms [with it].'
Milner featured in his final match at Anfield on Saturday as the Reds faced Aston Villa, coming on as a substitute for Jordan Henderson in the 72nd minute.
After the final whistle, Milner – along with other departing players including Roberto Firmino, Naby Keita, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – was treated to a guard of honour by their team-mates.
Fans unfurled banners in tribute to the departing midfielder and Milner appeared visibly emotional as he waved goodbye to Merseyside.
Klopp declared that Firmino and Milner had 'showed what we will miss' in their performances against Villa, after Firmino scored the equaliser to keep Liverpool's faint hopes of Champions League competition next season alive.
Milner is yet to confirm where he will be playing next season, but Brighton are said to be in advanced discussions with the midfielder as they seek reinforcements whilst preparing to enter Europe.
Leeds are also said to be interested in bringing their academy graduate back to Elland Road, but talks will likely hinge on the club's future in the Premier League.
With just one tie left to play this season, Leeds sit in the relegation zone after having gained just two points in th eir last eight games
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