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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Tom Cavilla

Neco Williams pays tearful tribute to grandad after starring for Wales in World Cup

Former Liverpool defender Neco Williams paid tribute to his late grandfather after helping Wales battle back to earn a point against USA on Monday evening.

The 21-year-old was pictured in tears after the full-time whistle of last night's 1-1 draw, which saw Gareth Bale convert a penalty late on to earn a share of the spoils, and later explained this was due to sad news he had received from his mother on Sunday.

Williams completed 79 minutes of action before being replaced by Nottingham Forest star Brennan Johnson and returned to the pitch at the full-time whistle with emotions running high.

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Speaking in the direction of the ITV cameras, the full-back said: "That was for you grandad" and looked up to the sky after making this remark.

Williams later posted the following tribute on his Twitter: "Yesterday was the toughest news I’ve ever had to face and that was listening to my mum tell me my grandad past away last night.

"To go from crying all day to start in a World Cup game was extremely tough but I got through it from the support of my team mates and family. So I dedicate that game and a important point to him."

Williams' 15-year association with the Reds came to an end this summer after Nottingham Forest agreed a £17million deal to sign the Wales international on a permanent basis.

He has featured in all 15 Premier League matches for Steve Cooper's side this season, switching to a left-sided role in recent weeks following a change in formation.

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