Wales and Nottingham Forest defender Neco Williams says he is proud of handling the demands of a gruelling campaign, but admits he is counting down the days until a proper break.
The 25-year-old completed his 60th appearance of the 2025-26 season on Tuesday night, playing all 90 minutes as Wales drew 1-1 with World Cup-bound Ghana at the Cardiff City Stadium. Brennan Johnson’s early strike was cancelled out by Mohammed Kudus in an entertaining friendly that served as preparation for both nations ahead of this month’s World Cup in North America.
For Williams, the match capped a relentless year. Between Forest’s Premier League survival push, two domestic cup runs, and Wales’ successful World Cup qualifying campaign, the fullback has barely had a week off since last July. He finished the club season with 44 appearances for Forest, adding 16 more for his country.
“It’s been a marathon, no doubt,” Williams said post-match. “Your body feels it, but I love playing football. I’ve enjoyed every minute of the responsibility Nuno gave me at Forest and what Rob Page asks me to do for Wales.”
Forest boss Nuno Espírito Santo has used Williams in multiple roles this season, from traditional right back to wing back and even on the left in emergencies. His versatility proved vital as Forest secured 15th place, five points clear of relegation.
Williams picked up just one minor hamstring issue in October, a fact he credits to changes in his recovery routine. “I’ve learned to manage myself better. Ice baths, sleep, diet. When you’re playing Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday, you have to be on it 24/7.”
With Wales not starting their World Cup campaign until June 16 against Colombia, Page has given his squad four days off before meeting up next Monday. Williams plans to head to Dubai with family to switch off.
“I’ll give myself three or four days where I don’t even think about football,” he said. “Then it’s full focus. The World Cup is the pinnacle. I’ll be fresh and ready to go again.”
Rob Page praised Williams’ consistency. “Neco has been outstanding all year,” the Wales manager said. “He sets the standard for professionalism. He’s earned his break, but I know he’ll come back hungry.”
Wales face Japan in a final warm-up on June 9 before flying to Houston.
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