Walker explains why he made AC Milan transfer and iconic shirt number choice

Kyle Walker has revealed that Tammy Abraham was crucial to his AC Milan move having picked a shirt number inspired by an England icon.

The Manchester City captain completed a switch to the San Siro earlier this week after putting pen to paper on a loan deal until the end of the season. There is a view to a permanent move once that comes to an end.

It brings to an end a hugely successful spell at the Etihad Stadium in which Walker has won 17 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League. And he will now play alongside England colleagues Tammy Abraham, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Fikayo Tomori in Italy.

Walker has now revealed that the striker was pivotal in convincing him to choose the Serie A giants, while he has also explained his shirt number selection. Speaking to Italian media, Walker said: “Tammy (Abraham) told me I should come. He helped me make a decision.

“The Milan fans here are incredible, hearing them sing, it will be emotional. I chose number 32 for David Beckham.”

And while Walker has already selected the shirt number that he will don at the San Siro, he is being made to wait for his debut. The 34-year-old is required to get a work permit to stay in Italy which will delay his AC Milan bow until next month.

Walker’s new side take on Parma on Sunday ahead of a Champions League clash with Dinamo Zagreb next week. In the meantime, Walker has penned an emotional farewell to Man City.

Taking to social media, he wrote: "Manchester City… where do I start? Signing for this incredible club in 2017 was a dream come true. Seven years later, winning 17 trophies, including the Champions League and the famous treble is something I could only have dreamt as a child.

"To play alongside so many top players has pushed me to be the best version of myself, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity I’ve had at the Etihad. A huge thank you to so many people, the coaching staff, the kit men and all the backroom staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes. You make every day enjoyable and provide the platform for us to perform at our best.

"To my teammates, from the moment I walked through the door I felt at home. Thank you for the great memories and for all the success we have shared together. You are friends, but also family for life.

"To Pep Guardiola, thank you for believing in me and working so hard to bring me here in 2017. Together, we’ve celebrated 17 trophies, and your guidance has helped shape me into the player I am today. I’ll be forever grateful.”