Gillingham bring in Ryan Williams on loan from Fulham
by Steve Tervet
Gillingham have signed Australian right-winger Ryan Williams on
loan from Fulham.
The 19-year-old goes straight into the Gills squad for
Saturday’s game at home to Dagenham & Redbridge.
Williams has been with the Premier League club since January
2012, when he moved to Craven Cottage from Portsmouth.
Gills boss Martin Allen (pictured) watched the midfielder play
83 minutes for Fulham’s under-21 side at Everton on Monday
night.
Perth-born Williams has represented the Socceroos at under-20
level and his two brothers, Rhys and Aryn, play for Middlesbrough
and Burnley respectively.
He arrives at Priestfield on an initial 28-day deal although the
Gills have the option of extending his stay.
Allen said: “I have seen him a few times and I watched him on
Monday night. He will go into our squad for Saturday.
“He is positive, he can open up defences, he is fast, direct and
he is a good player.
“How do I find (these players)? I drive my car, I don’t rely on
other people, I go and watch football matches all the time.
“We don’t have scouts here. Graziloi does a bit around London,
Hessy does a bit and so do the other staff but the bottom line is
that I drive and watch them.”
Williams arrives at Priestfield on an initial 28-day loan but
Gillingham have the option of extending the teenager’s stay.
Allen added: “If he does well we may keep him and if he doesn’t
do so well we will send him back. It’s a good deal financially for
the club.
“He is right-footed and I thought that would be an area, playing
at home, where it would help us. I want him to take full-backs on
and get crosses in.
“Going down that right side towards the Rainham End, that’s
going to be fantastic. If he does what I know he can do, our
supporters will love him.”
14/02/13
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