The Sun (8/6, page 67) claims that Sheffield United are interested in Ashley Williams following his release by Everton.
Williams spent last season on loan at Stoke City in the Championship. Therefore it was unsurprising that the Toffees did not offer him a new contract.
It comes three years after Williams was signed from Swansea City for £12m (BBC). The defender arrived at Goodison Park on the back of an impressive Euro 2016 with Wales. They reached the semi-finals of the tournament.
Williams had also built a fine reputation for himself at Swansea. Yet things soon started to unravel after making the step up and the 34-year-old’s performances were heavily criticised during his time on Merseyside.
Stoke offered Williams the chance to redeem himself. Yet they also had a disappointing campaign in 2018/19 following relegation from the Premier League.
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The centre-back played 33 league games as the Potters finished 16th in the table.
Why Sheffield United should avoid Ashley Williams
(Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Getty Images)
The Blades are getting ready for their first season in the top flight in 12 years. Manager Chris Wilder says he’s not going to overhaul his squad, but does want to add some Premier League experience.
However, the Sheffield Star reports Wilder is targeting five new players and none of them are centre-backs.
Yet even if he were, the past two years have probably proven Williams is no longer cut out for the top tier. Instead, Wilder should be looking at his teammate.
Despite being two years older, Phil Jagielka is a far better option. Not only has the 36-year-old shown he can still cut it at the top – despite only making seven appearances last term – he is also a former Blade.
According to the Daily Mail, Wilder is also interested in Jagielka after he was also released by Everton. If it is a straight choice between the two, there is no competition.
