Neco Williams plays down United and Spurs links as Gerrard urges Forest to keep him

Neco Williams refused to be drawn on reported interest from Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday, reaffirming his commitment to Nottingham Forest as the summer transfer window approaches its September 1 close. The Wales international has emerged as a target for both clubs, with United in particular seeking left-back cover.

Williams, 25, is a natural right-back but has impressed playing on the left flank for Forest this season. According to BBC Sport, United admire the defender, while Spurs were also exploring a late move — though Forest have made clear they do not want to sell.

“Every day I’m focused on the badge I’m wearing right now,” Williams told TNT Sports when asked about the speculation. “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.”

Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, who worked with Williams early in his coaching career, offered a glowing assessment of the full-back, suggesting he has yet to reach his peak.

“He comes in of a morning, he does everything right. He’s very professional, he’s a winner,” Gerrard said. “He’s very aggressive, he’s a competitor. We already know he’s got the talent.”

Gerrard went further, arguing that Williams’ best football is still ahead of him — and that his current role does not even showcase his strongest attributes. “He’s playing out of position. He’s doing an incredible job on the left side. Can you imagine what he’d be like if he played on the right side?”

In a candid aside, Gerrard also admitted Liverpool erred in letting Williams leave Anfield. “I apologise to the Forest fans — Liverpool should have kept him.”

Manchester United, managed by Michael Carrick, face Ipswich Town this weekend and will be hoping to secure a left-back before the window shuts.