Jonny Williams Reflects on Club Search and PFA Training Programme
Former Wales midfielder Jonny Williams, 32, has expressed his intention to remain "patient" and "calm" as he searches for a new club following his release from League Two side Gillingham. Williams, who spent the last three seasons with Gillingham, is currently out of contract.
To maintain his fitness and showcase his abilities, Williams has enrolled in a pre-season training programme funded by the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA). This 12-week residential initiative, held at Champneys Springs in Leicestershire, is now in its third year and provides free agents the opportunity to train and play together while seeking new employment.
"At the moment the aim is to sign for a team, but you have to remain patient and wait for the right one," Williams told BBC Wales' Feast of Football podcast.
"Ideally I'd want to play in England. I really enjoy the atmosphere and the football in the top four leagues.
"I want to stay in the EFL, really, but if something else comes up that is appropriate and ticks some boxes then I'd be willing to take a look at that as well."
Career Overview and International Experience
Williams joined Gillingham on a free transfer in 2023 and made 27 appearances for the club during the last season. Internationally, he earned 33 caps for Wales, scoring twice. His most recent appearance for Wales was against Poland in June 2022 during the Nations League, where he scored his second international goal despite the team's defeat.
Williams retired from international football four months after the 2022 World Cup, at the age of 29, having not featured in the tournament. Despite stepping away from international play, his ambition to continue his club career remains strong.
"I was surprised at how passionate he was to get into management."
Outlook and Importance of the PFA Programme
Williams emphasized the importance of finding the right club environment, including the right manager, playing style, and team atmosphere. He praised the PFA training programme for providing a supportive environment during this uncertain phase of his career.
"I want to play as high as I can for as long as I can, but it's so important to find the right manager, the right style of football and have a nice dressing room that you enjoy seeing people every day," he said.
"I had that last year to be fair. So I'll just stay patient and try to stay calm because it can be an uncertain time.
"But that's why this place is so great because there are 40 of us in the same boat, feeling the same way, so you can lean on each other in that regard."
