I'VE FOUND A NEW ZEST FOR LIFE!

THE course of any football career rarely runs smooth. George Williams, more than most, understands the many challenges that any bright young prospect can face in pursuit of their dreams.

- Sean Cole

“Sometimes you can get lost in football – money, ego and fame,” says Williams, who has finally found solace at Hemel Hempstead Town after injury and instability disrupted his progress.

“When I joined Hemel, it stripped it back for me. The reason I started playing football in the first place is because I just loved it. Playing regularly, I remembered that love and hunger I had for the game.”

A product of the MK Dons academy, Williams progressed through the ranks alongside Dele Alli and actually broke into the first team ahead of the former England international.

At 16, he made his professional debut against Nantwich Town in the FA Cup first round and become the youngest goalscorer in the competition’s history.

"Being part of the squad was a very special moment for my family, the Welshman told. “I didn’t think I was going to play. I was so nervous and excited being on the pitch. I’m just thankful that instinct took over. I went round the keeper and put the ball into an empty net.”

At the end of that season, Williams agonised over the decision to leave his boyhood club for Fulham and the Premier League.

“I feel for any young player who’s put in that situation,” Williams, now 29, recalled. “My heart always wanted to stay at MK Dons. Leaving was the hardest thing I ever had to do, but I had the option of going one step further. I had so many thoughts going through my head.”

Two years later and the risk was paying off. After Fulham suffered relegation, Williams earned his chance, making 16 appearances and signing a new contract. By then, he was already a regular in the Wales international squad, playing with freedom and fearlessness under boss Chris Coleman.