Ryan Williams talks to www.themillers.co.uk...
Paul Warne’s plan for the future of Rotherham United was the key factor in Ryan Williams committing his future to the Millers.
The Australian midfielder says it was Warne’s approach that persuaded him that his future was best placed at the AESSEAL New York Stadium, after he become Warne’s third summer signing this morning.
After receiving a phone call from the amiable Rotherham boss, Williams said it took a matter of minutes before he decided he wanted to sign for the Millers.
“I heard a couple of weeks back that Rotherham were interested through my agent, and as soon as I heard that I knew it would be a move that would appeal to me,” Williams told www.themillers.co.uk
“I got a call from the manager and that was the real turning point for me because within the first two minutes of the conversation I knew that this is where I wanted to be. It is a good club with passionate fans. The manager knows what he wants, and it is what I want as well, so it is a perfect fit for me.
"The manager here didn't sound like the majority of managers, and that's why I was so keen to sign. He is different, he was engaging and I enjoyed talking with him. He has a plan here, and it sounded great and I was fully in agreement with what he had to say.”
After beginning his career in his native Australia, the Perth-born winger moved to England initially with Portsmouth before switching to Fulham in 2012.
During his time at Craven Cottage he furthered his footballing education with loan spells at Gillingham, Oxford United and Barnsley.
It was at Oakwell where he caught the eye, with the Reds agreeing to take him on a permanent basis for an undisclosed fee in 2015.
During his first season he was hampered by injury, but now fit again, the 23-year-old made 17 appearances in The Championship last season.
“I am really looking forward to playing here and hopefully get back to The Championship because everyone knows that is where we want to be,” added Williams.
“There is no shying away from that, that's what we want to achieve here.
"There were a few clubs that showed an interest, but as soon as the manager here told me about the plans and my role in that, it made me want to come here. I've had a few injuries, but I've been fit for the past year now so that is all behind me. I am young, fit and hungry for success and I really want to play and that's why I am here.”