Former Wales international Jonny Williams has shared his excitement about returning to the Racecourse Ground to face high-flying Wrexham as the midfielder travels back to his native country with Gillingham on Saturday.
Williams represented Wales at youth level whilst at Crystal Palace and made 33 appearances for the senior team before announcing his retirement from international football earlier in 2023.
The midfielder is no stranger to the Racecourse Ground, where the Wales youth teams play their matches, and Williams explained to Kent Online how he has followed Wrexham’s recent rise with interest.
“It’s been a good watch and it’s amazing what they have achieved, but we’re looking forward to going there (this Saturday) and hopefully putting on a show in a game we think we could win.”
While Williams praised the Red Dragons’ well-documented recent success under the ownership of Hollywood stars Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, the 29-year-old also feels that Gillingham shares similar ambitions to match those of the much-watched Wrexham.
“It is a club that are having a right go, changing a lot of things, it is an exciting project but, likewise, I think the same about Gillingham here, with the owners and the goals and the dreams they have for this football club. It is exciting to be here and to be part of our own project.
“I joined the club to be part of that journey and it will be fantastic if we can get promoted and be a part of that.”
Despite a fine start to the League Two season, with three consecutive 1-0 wins, Gillingham’s form has dipped recently. The Gills have won just four of their last 12 and slipped to ninth after their downturn in form. During this spell, the club also sacked former boss Neil Harris in October and replaced him with Stephen Clemence.
Williams joined the Kent-based club following his release from Swindon Town at the end of last season. Since joining Gillingham, the midfielder has made 20 appearances in all competitions.
Writer’s View
Although Williams may return to Wales with a sense of nostalgia and optimism, the same may not be said for the rest of Gillingham. The Gills face a tough test in Wrexham as the Red Dragons have won their last four and are unbeaten in seven at home.
In contrast, Gillingham head into the contest with four defeats in their last six League Two matches amidst their recent tumble down the table.
