Swans boss Russell Martin has said that “the ball is in their court” regarding Liverpool loanee Rhys Williams’ future at the club.
Williams has struggled for game time since arriving in SA1 on a season long loan from Anfield, starting just five games. When he has played, he has come under intense scrutiny for some below par appearances.
Fans wanting to show patience likened his performances to those of Marc Guehi, who took some games to get up to speed after joining on loan. Guehi turned into an outstanding signing; unfortunately Williams looks some way short of ever getting to those levels.
The centre half failed to even make the matchday squad for the trip to Huddersfield, but Martin is clear on where the decision lies on a possible loan termination.
“We’ve been really honest with Liverpool about the opportunities Rhys has had and the potential opportunities he has moving forward, so the ball is in their court,” he told WalesOnline.
“We can’t send him back…That’s the danger of doing loans. The parent club is always in control, to an extent.
“I think Rhys is in contact with them constantly about what’s happening.
“I think the frustrating thing for Rhys is that he’s really happy here, he’s enjoying training, he feels he’s improved, but the one disappointing thing for him is that he’s had limited opportunities.
“He’s wanted to play more and I’m pretty sure Liverpool feel the same way, so we’ll have to see what happens with that one, but that’s down to them.”
Williams departure would leave Swansea with Ryan Bennett, Joel Latibeaudiere, Kyle Naughton, Brandon Cooper and Ryan Manning as centre back choices. Links still continue with MK Dons centre back Harry Darling – even though he may be out of the club’s budget.