'For him, for them' - Williams' family inspiration

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When Neco Williams represents Wales, he does so with his family in mind.

As a youngster in the youth academy of Liverpool, Williams’ parents and grandfather would drive him from their home in north Wales to training sessions.

Without their support, the 23-year-old would not have developed into the skilled Premier League full-back he is today, currently thriving with Nottingham Forest as they pursue a spot in the Champions League.

Williams stands out as a prominent player for Wales, amassing 44 caps in just five years into his international journey, which reached a high point when he aided his nation in qualifying for their first World Cup in 64 years.

However, just a day prior to Wales’ opening match in Qatar in November 2022, news of the passing of his grandfather, Kelvin Jones, reached him.

“My grandad played a huge role in my football journey. He passed away just a day before the match. It was undoubtedly one of my hardest moments in the sport,” Williams shared.

“I had just lost a person very dear to me, who had greatly assisted me in my football pursuits. He would often drive me to training and attend many matches, offering plentiful advice.”

“And then, the next day, I faced one of the most significant games of my career. It was undeniably a challenging time. But I knew that if he had been around, he would have told me, ‘you’re playing.’ No matter what had happened, I had to step onto the field. So that is exactly what I did.”

After the match, Williams wept as he looked skyward in remembrance of his grandfather, who would have been proud of his effort in the 1-1 draw against the United States.

In tribute to that moment, the full-back had the date of the match incorporated into an existing tattoo on his hand that reads ‘blessed,’ and he has since created another homage.

“I’ve crafted a ring that bears his name,” Williams reveals. “It’s placed beside the medals I’ve earned throughout my career. It serves as a constant reminder of my achievements, alongside my medals and trophies, whenever I return home.”

“He wasn’t merely my grandad; he was instrumental in my life. He would alternate with my mum and dad to take me to training four times a week. The journey wasn’t short either—it was to Liverpool, which involved an hour’s travel each way.”

“They all made significant sacrifices, and I wouldn’t be here today without them.”

Time is intended to soften the sting of loss, yet it can also bring about a different kind of hurt. The more time passes without a loved one, the greater the void becomes in your life.

As life progresses, their presence gradually diminishes.

With a heavy heart, Williams longs for his grandfather’s presence as Wales embarks on their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign at home against Kazakhstan on Saturday.

The absence of that individual creates a distinct change, yet, as illustrated by Williams, it is possible to keep a fragment of them alive within oneself – and cherish their memory.

"I’m not solely performing for my grandfather; this is also for my family," Williams expresses. "They have made countless sacrifices to help me realize my aspirations. Fundamentally, everything I pursue is for them.

"It wasn’t only me who faced sacrifices. As a young boy, I relocated, lived away from home, and had sporadic opportunities to reconnect with my friends. Often, the sacrifices made by players’ families go unnoticed.

"They play a significant role in the careers of players, as I can assure you that many in our squad would not be where we are today or playing for the teams we do without the support of our families.

"I am incredibly thankful for all they have done for me."