Ashley Williams’ dip in form for Everton this season does not pose a problem for Wales, according to former Wales striker John Hartson.
Williams has come in for some fierce flak from Toffees supporters after a series of under-par performances, which culminated in a red card aginst Burnley last Saturday for throwing an elbow.
However, Hartson, who will be appearing on S4C’s Mwy o Sgorio football chat show at 6.30pm on Wednesday evening, says that Williams has the character to bounce back into form.
He also believes that new manager Ryan Giggs will retain Williams as his captain when he names his first squad as Wales manager, ahead of this month’s China Cup.
Hartson, said: “I’m sure Ashley will still be in the squad, and probably still as captain. He’s a player who’s never let Wales down. It’s up to Ryan and Ashley to discuss his form, and Ryan will be having similar chats with the other players too.
“Ryan has spoken to many of them privately on the phone, even before the squad first meeting. Ashley is an excellent player. He lived on the same street as me in Swansea for years, so I know Ashley and his family really well. He’s a great character.
“He’s not shown the level we’re used to seeing him at recently, but he has the character to bounce back. He’s so important for Wales, and he’s 33 year-old, which is not old for a defender with his amount of experience. Ashley’s very fit and keeps himself in great shape.
“To me, it’s not a big problem for Wales. As captain, he’s never let his country down.”
John Hartson will join host Dylan Ebenezer and former Wales and Swans midfielder Owain Tudur Jones on the Mwy o Sgorio sofa. Also on the programme will be an in-depth interview between Wales international Chris Gunter and Carmarthen comedian Elis James. You can also watch Mwy o Sgorio on demand at s4c.cymru. English subtitles available.
