Neco Williams: From Liverpool prospect to Forest’s precise crosser and accomplished full-back | OneFootball

Neco Williams’ precision from dead balls and complete full-back play have become central to Nottingham Forest, a point underlined in Sunday’s win at Tottenham showcasing Vitor Pereira’s planning.

According to NY Times, Forest drilled his Wales-honed corners at the Nigel Doughty Academy, with Elliot Anderson freed from set-piece duty to occupy markers. Just before half-time, Williams’ far-post delivery was headed in by Igor Jesus, only Forest’s seventh set-piece goal this season.

The 24-year-old has been a constant through a chaotic campaign and now turns to international duty, with Wales facing Bosnia & Herzegovina in a World Cup play-off semi-final tonight. His steady rise since joining from Liverpool in 2022 is well recognised by Forest fans.

Raised in Cefn Mawr, he starred for Cefn United before joining Liverpool. After a back stress fracture, he won the FA Youth Cup, debuted in the 5-5 Carabao Cup tie with Arsenal, was part of the Club World Cup-winning squad and had a Premier League medal by 19, later leaving social media in 2020-21 after abuse.

Opportunity at Anfield was limited by Trent Alexander-Arnold, with Conor Bradley emerging, so Williams joined Forest in July 2022. Steve Cooper’s past ties helped seal a £17 million move.

His direct running with Ola Aina under Nuno Espirito Santo powered Forest to seventh last season and his influence has endured. Pereira prizes his responsibility and versatility across back lines, has sharpened his left foot, and the numbers reflect attacking thrust, 3.4 open-play crosses per 90, plus strong tackling rates.

Source: NY Times