Nottingham Forest player Neco Williams played for Wales against Croatia as they opened their European Championship qualifiers with a 1-1 draw. The Reds defender started at left-back – but it wasn’t a night to remember for the youngster.
Williams has found his first season at the City Ground something of a frustrating time. He began the season as the team’s first-choice right-back but was quickly replaced in the team once Serge Aurier checked in.
Just lately, Williams has found himself playing in more unnatural roles. Steve Cooper has tried to utilise him as a winger, which has seen him enjoy limited success in the Forest team.
The 21-year-old was added to the Forest ranks from Liverpool. He cost the club £17 million and was signed after enjoying a solid second half of 2021/22, where he helped Fulham lift the Championship title.
Last night, Wales faced a strong Croatia team. Wales Online scored the players out of 10 after the game and Williams was given a 4/10 for his performance as the team’s left-back.
They wrote: “Playing at left-back, he was pinned back for most of the night. Got in a right old mess for the opening goal and was sloppy in possession too on occasions.”
Williams played for Wales but problems remain
Getting some game time under his belt won’t do Williams any harm at all. The Reds will certainly welcome the fact that he’s played 90 minutes during his time on international duty.
The youngster is still finding his way in the professional game. Setbacks should strengthen his character and he’s unlikely to look back on 2022/23 with too much fondness.
Williams is a trier, there is absolutely no doubt about that. However, there is huge room for improvement, particularly when it comes to defending – as the comments about his performance last night showed.
The youngster is a likeable player. He has the right ingredients to one day become a sound player but the challenge for Forest right now is to help him rediscover his best form.