Rhys Williams omitted from Liverpool first-team as Anfield future becomes clear – report
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has omitted Rhys Williams from his pre-season squad, according to Dave OCKOP.
Writing on their website (9 July), the Reds insider reports that Williams alongside Billy Koumetio will not feature in the first-team squad.
Williams similar to Nat Phillips, spent the first half of the season on loan in Scotland with Aberdeen but only made one appearance against Stirling Albion.
He due to spend the second half of the season at Port Vale but both clubs announced the loan termination due to injury only 16 days after the confirmation of the move.
Liverpool cult-hero Williams set for Anfield exit
The omission of Williams from the pre-season squad all but ended the defender’s Liverpool career.
He formed an iconic partnership with Phillips during the 2020/21 season as their heroics helped the Reds secure a third place in the Premier League.
Both of them are now on the chopping block at Anfield, but the future of Williams is uncertain with no interest in the player following unsuccessful loan spells at Swansea, Blackpool, and Aberdeen.
Williams made 19 appearances across all competitions that season for the Reds and has been on the fringes ever since.
He missed 106 days last season alone as his injury struggles continue throughout his career (Transfermarkt).
With the absence of several first-team regulars due to Copa America and Euro 2024 commitments, Slot has included 19 academy players in his pre-season squad (This is Anfield, 9 July).
The Reds only have Jarell Quansah and Sepp van den Berg as the club’s senior centre-backs and Williams’ omission is clear that his future lies away from Anfield.
It is unfortunate to see the career of who was once considered a bright academy prospect end in such a manner.
He had the opportunity to impress following his performances in the infamous 20/21 season but it has unfortunately not worked out for him at the club.
A move makes sense for both club and player and Williams can use his remaining time at Liverpool to put the injuries behind him and search for regular first-team football.
In other Liverpool news, View: Alexis Mac Allister can have super Liverpool season despite quiet Argentina display.
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