A photograph from Williams’ past appeared on social media following his move from Swansea City to Everton.
Everton’s Ashley Williams applauding fans as he is paraded before their season opener against Spurs
New Everton signing Ashley Williams has confessed to supporting fierce rivals Liverpool as a boy, via the Daily Mail.
Williams, who has been linked with a move to Anfield in the past, arrived at Goodison Park this month in a reported £9 million deal from Swansea City.
However, when rumours of the Wales captain’s transfer emerged, so did the photograph of a young Williams stood alongside John Barnes wearing a Liverpool home shirt on social media.
The 31-year-old, though, insisted he does not support anyone now – not least the Reds.
“I grew up as a Liverpool fan, up to when I was about 13 or 14,” Williams told the Daily Mail. “John Barnes was my idol, so it was unbelievable to meet him. But once you play in the Premier League, you don’t support anyone. Liverpool are Liverpool – just another rival.
“But as a kid, I don’t really regret it. I knew it would surface, some time.”
Williams, who said his Swansea exit was sparked by a need to ‘change my scenery a little bit’, is still awaiting his Everton debut, having returned to pre-season late following Wales’ impressive venture to the Euro 2016 semi-finals.
Williams in action for Wales at Euro 2016
The Wolverhampton-born centre-back has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most dependable in his position since 2012, and spent the past three campaigns as captain of the Welsh side.
Prior to his arrival at the Liberty Stadium eight years ago, Williams played for Stockport County and non-league Hednesford Town.
Williams celebrates winning the Capital One Cup with Garry Monk and Nathan Dyer
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