‘Really strong’: Sky pundit lauds Liverpool young gun playing out of position on int’l duty

Follow us on Google Discover

Ashley Williams lauded Liverpool defender Neco Williams for putting in another ‘really strong’ showing for Wales against Belgium on Tuesday, as he told Sky Sports Football (16/11/21 at 10:05 pm).

Wales, who have already booked their play-off spot for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, recorded a 1-1 draw against the number one team in the world.

Whilst Rob Page’s side knew they had that nerve-racking play-off spot booked, it was a case of trying to earn that home game for the semi-final.

And following that much-earned and deserved point against Roberto Martinez’s side, they are now two games away from Qatar.

Williams, who impressed during his side’s thumping win against Belarus last week, was once again played as a left wing-back by his manager.

And ex-Everton man Ashley Williams lauded what he has produced for his country.

“I think these are two back-to-back games where he has been really strong for us,” said Williams. “And I am really pleased for him.

“I just think a right-footed player playing at left wing-back, and being so high up the pitch as he is against the number one team in the world, just goes to show how brave he is.

“That’s an unbelievable shot by him, cutting onto his right foot and it’s equalled by the save, so we were all out of our seats screaming because we thought it was going to be a worldie.

“In more than that, his whole performance, he was so tired towards the end, but he stuck with it and he defended his box really well. Tonight and Saturday, two big games from Neco.”

It’s going to be interesting to see what Jurgen Klopp makes of Williams’ recent international outings.

He is a right-back by trade, but it’s pretty difficult for him to push ahead of Trent Alexander-Arnold on the domestic stage.

In truth, he’s not going to get much luck at left-back either, so a loan deal might be the best option for him in January.

If Wales get to Qatar, then Williams needs as many minutes under his belt as possible, so moving to another club, even on a temporary basis, needs to happen.