Gerrard says Liverpool should have kept Neco Williams after Forest's 2-2 Anfield draw

Steven Gerrard has declared that Liverpool made a mistake selling Neco Williams to Nottingham Forest for £12m in July 2022, making his feelings clear on the same day the two clubs played out a 2-2 Premier League draw at Anfield on Saturday.

Gerrard, who coached Williams in Liverpool’s youth setup, was reunited with the 25-year-old ahead of kick-off and was effusive in his praise. “I told his parents they had an incredible talent and an incredible human being,” Gerrard said. “He wanted it to be here at Liverpool initially but he got the setback that he had to move. What he’s done is grabbed that opportunity with both hands. He’s grown, he’s evolved and he’s arguably one of the best full-backs in the league in my opinion.”

Gerrard went further, insisting Williams has yet to reach his ceiling. “He trains how he plays. He comes in of a morning, he does everything right, he’s very professional. He’s a winner, very aggressive, he’s a competitor,” he said. “He’s playing out of position, doing an incredible job on the left side. Can you imagine what he’d be like on the right side? I’m not just saying it, and I apologise to the Forest fans, but Liverpool should have kept him.”

Williams has made over 150 appearances for Forest since his move and is currently in talks over a new contract at the City Ground. However, his form has attracted interest from elsewhere, with Manchester United and Newcastle United among the clubs reported to be monitoring the Wales international.

Williams himself was measured when asked about the speculation. “You’re trying to stitch me up there,” he said. “Of course, it’s nice to see that there’s interest and teams showing interest, but I’m a Nottingham Forest player and fully focused on what I’m doing here. Every day is showing full commitment and giving my best to help this team.”

The draw at Anfield leaves both clubs with points to reflect on, though it is Gerrard’s candid assessment of a former pupil — and a pointed message to his old club — that is likely to dominate the post-match conversation.