The signing of Welshman Liam Williams could prove to be one of the buys of the summer as double European champions Saracens continue to strengthen with a third successive European Champions Cup success in their sights.
With Chris Ashton confirming his name in the outgoing file, many pondered who Sarries would look to as a replacement. There was no shortage of options considering the allure of the English team and they have snapped up one of the most improved players in Williams from perhaps the most improved team in Wales, the Scarlets.
The rangy utility player is currently on tour with the British and Irish Lions and has been selected to play ahead of Leigh Halfpenny at 15 for the first test against New Zealand. The fact he has displaced the player of the tour of four years ago shows how talented he is, but the fact he is at full-back for the first test will have many wondering how he can replace Ashton, a winger?
It’s simple really. Much like England’s Elliot Daly, Williams is a player that can play in most positions across the backline. Utilised on the wing by Wales and the Lions, Williams has been switched around often, meaning the only thing that is consistent about where he plays is that it is rarely in the same place twice.
The question that many Sarries’ fans are asking though is does Williams have that same sort of spark as Ashton? The winger has crossed the whitewash nine times in the league and leaves for Toulon having scored 46 tries for the London side.
Williams on the other hand scored six tries for the Scarlets in 15 league appearances. The Welshman is not quite as prolific as the man he is replacing then, but Saracens are indeed getting a better player.
It has never been in doubt that Ashton is a superb finisher. Whether being given the ball in space and blitzing past defenders or appearing in the right place at the right time, the former England international is clinical.
🎥British & Irish Lions
The Welshman is also outstanding on the front foot and can use his pace or quick-step to ghost past defenders. Both these attributes were on full display in the Lions’ Tuesday game against the Chiefs.
Where Ashton really struggles is in his defending. Too often is he found being pushed backwards on the wing, allowing players to get through his tackles or making weak attempts at bringing an attacker to the ground. Williams, on the other hand, is a fierce competitor, happy to put his body on the line to make the tackle and never accused of being too weak. In Wales he is lauded as a player of immense determination and drive.
Importantly, the versatility that Williams brings could be key to Saracens’ continued success. Alex Goode is a fine full-back but should injury strike, Williams could deputise to good effect. Interestingly the Welshman can also strike the ball well in both open play and from dead ball situations, adding another string to his bow.
The Welshman is in no way the finished product yet. At just 26-years-old he still has a lot to learn and this inexperience was exposed in the Lions’ game against the Blues where he was sin-binned for two tackles in the air, but if he remains on his current course, he will become a world-class player and a fine addition to the Saracens’ team.
