The defender has been a big hit since his arrival from Swansea City this summer.
BT Sport duo Steve McManaman and Robbie Savage have hailed the impact Ashley Williams has had on Everton.
The defender made the move to Goodison Park in the summer transfer window as they sought a replacement for John Stones after his move to Manchester City.
The Welsh international has settled swiftly in the Blues’ defence, quickly forming a solid partnership with Phil Jagielka in the heart of their back line.
That basis has helped Ronald Koeman’s side concede just three goals in their first five games, with that defensive solidity playing a key role in their fine start to the season.
And both Savage and McManaman have hailed the impact that Williams has had on the Toffees, telling BT Sport:
“The one difference is that Ashley Williams has gone into the side and they’ve only conceded three goals.”
“He’s 32 Ashley Williams but football is all about today, so he’s an absolute steal of a buy. He’ll play for a number of years.”
Williams has certainly been in fine form for Everton since coming into the side in place of Ramiro Funes Mori.
It is the effect he has had on Phil Jagielka that is the most notable, though, with the veteran looking more composed alongside him than he ever did with Stones.
Indeed that is shown in the stats, with Jagielka currently beating Everton’s other defenders when it comes to defensive duels won, effective clearances and effective headed clearances.
Everton will be hoping that is something that continues for a while yet as they look set for a strong season under Ronald Koeman.
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