Steven Gerrard believes Liverpool should have kept hold of Neco Williams, who he claims has become "one of the best" full-backs in the Premier League. The 25-year-old spent 12 years of his youth with the Reds before signing his first professional contract with the club in 2019.
After struggling to establish himself, making just 33 first-team appearances and enjoying a half-season loan with Fulham, Williams was sold to Nottingham Forest in 2022. Since then, the Wales international has proven himself among the brightest in his position in the English top flight.
Gerrard's praise for Williams
Speaking on TNT Sports ahead of Liverpool's Premier League match with Nottingham Forest at Anfield, Gerrard said: "He deserves to play, and I don't want to cut him off, but this a player who trains the way he plays."
"He comes in of a morning, he does everything right. He's very professional, he's a winner. He's very aggressive, he's a competitor. We already know he's got the talent. If you've got everything around you, your talent, you can play at this level and you can stay at this level."
"I still think he hasn't hit his ceiling yet. I still think he's at an age where he can go to the next level, with experience, and time and more games."
Williams' impact at Forest
Williams has racked up 163 appearances for Forest across all competitions. Gerrard added: "He's playing out of position. He's doing an incredible job on the left side. Can you imagine what he'd be like if he played on the right side?"
"For me, he's a fantastic full-back. And I'm not just saying it, and I apologise to the Forest fans, Liverpool should have kept him."
Williams has been linked with Manchester United and Tottenham this summer, but Forest are determined to keep the Welshman. His current contract does not expire until 2029, and the Midlands side are said to be in talks over a new deal.
Liverpool's full-back situation
Liverpool have seen their full-backs questioned in the past 12 months. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson have both moved on, while Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez have had their defensive qualities questioned.
Williams helped Forest claim a draw at Anfield on Saturday afternoon. Oliver Glasner's side twice took the lead, but Victor Munoz's strike secured a point for the Reds.
