Ryan Williams talks to www.themillers.co.uk...
The pressure of expectation is something that is welcomed by new Rotherham United signing Ryan Williams.
The versatile Aussie midfielder is one of four confirmed signings that will be starting pre-season training at the back end of this week, as Rotherham United manager Paul Warne starts what is set to be a stringent five week boot camp.
The Millers, who kick off their League One campaign against Fleetwood Town on August 5th, will return to Roundwood this week, before flying out for a week-long exercise in Austria on July 9th.
Williams has been impressed with the Millers’ recruitment over the close season, confirming that he signed for Warne’s side with the aim of returning to the second tier after making 17 appearances for Barnsley in The Championship last season.
The Millers are one of three clubs dropping into the third tier, with the former Portsmouth and Fulham operator confirming he will relish the pressure of expectation as the new season draws closer.
“I am excited. I am looking forward to pre-season and the games we have coming up,” he told www.themillers.co.uk
“I like the pressure of being a team that is expected to do well, that will drive us forward and I am looking forward to the challenge.
“After pre-season we have a tough start, and then we have got Lincoln in the first round of the cup which will be a good test. We welcome the challenge and I am really exciting to get going.”
Williams is one of several players within the Millers’ camp that have experienced a promotion from League One.
Whilst he suffered from injury, he played a part in Barnsley’s promotion and the 23-year-old says that previous experience of the level could be a key factor in adapting to new surroundings.
“I know there are one or two older lads here who have done well at this level previously, that will help,” he added.
“It is always good to have that bit of experience of success to help the younger lads. I know some of the lads have tasted promotion as well. We will be looking to add to that experience and hopefully add to my CV by getting another promotion.”
Now Williams is eager to get started and after a relatively short hop to AESSEAL New York Stadium, he is already feeling at home with the Millers.
“I have been here around the area for few years, and I enjoy it,” he confimed.
“My girlfriend is from Wakefield, so from that respect it also helped my decision to sign.
“I will be giving 100% now every time I play. I'm a hard working individual, but I like to think that I have got a bit extra as well in the final third, and hopefully the fans will see that next season.”