Neco Williams spent 12 years of his youth with Liverpool before signing his first professional contract with the club in 2019, but the Wales international was moved on to Nottingham Forest in 2022
Steven Gerrard
Steven Gerrard had kind words for Neco Williams(Image: Oli SCARFF / AFP via Getty Images)
Steven Gerrard reckons Liverpool made a mistake in letting Neco Williams go, describing him as having developed into "one of the best" full-backs in the Premier League. The 25-year-old came through the Reds' academy system over 12 years before penning his first senior deal in 2019.
Yet, after finding opportunities limited at Anfield, managing only 33 first-team outings plus a half-season loan stint at Fulham, Williams departed for Nottingham Forest in 2022. Since then, the Welsh international has established himself as one of the division's standout performers in his position and won a penalty in Saturday's 2-2 draw.
Discussing Williams, who has now clocked up 163 appearances for Forest in all competitions, Gerrard remarked: "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.", reports the Liverpool Echo.
"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.
"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."
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker fouls Neco Williams
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker fouls Neco Williams(Image: Simon Stacpoole/Offside, Offside via Getty Images)
Williams has attracted interest from Manchester United and Tottenham this summer, but Nottingham Forest remain resolute about retaining the Wales international. With his existing deal running until 2029, the Midlands club are reportedly negotiating an improved contract.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have faced scrutiny over their full-back positions throughout the past year. Long-serving duo Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson have both departed, while incoming options such as Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez have had their defensive capabilities called into question.
Williams played a key role as Nottingham Forest earned a draw at Anfield on Saturday afternoon. Oliver Glasner's men established the lead on two occasions, but Victor Munoz's fine finish ensured the Reds salvaged a point.