Ex-Millwall man Shaun Williams: I rejected Championship offers to sign for Portsmouth

Shaun Williams has revealed that he turned down the chance to stay in the Championship in favour of joining Portsmouth.

The Republic of Ireland international made 295 appearances and scored 18 goals for the Lions.

The 34-year-old has signed a one-year deal at Fratton Park.

Williams told the Portsmouth News: “I had opportunities to stay in the Championship. But I think, for the project that is at hand here, it was too hard not to turn down.

“If you can have success then why not do it at a team that’s looking to push on? We’d been successful at Millwall, but had then stayed in the same league. So here, you can make a name for yourself at a club and make a mark for when you do leave.

“The club is definitely on an upward curve.

“I won’t be box-to-box anymore but I usually play in a one or two. Whatever the manager decides, I’m happy to play. I’ve always been a defensive midfielder that likes to foray forward the odd time.

“There aren’t as many left-footed players out there, so hopefully it can bring some balance to the team.”