Former Crystal Palace and Charlton midfielder retires from international football

Former Crystal Palace and Charlton Athletic midfielder Jonny Williams has retired from international duty with Wales.

Williams, 29, was a part of Wales’ squad for the recent World Cup in Qatar.

The Swindon Town midfielder made a total of 33 appearances for Wales and scored twice.

Williams progressed through the ranks at Crystal Palace and made 70 appearances for the Eagles.

He joined Charlton in 2019 and featured 66 times during his stint at The Valley.

In a post on social media, Williams said: “I have decided that the time is right for me to step back and retire from international football.

“From the age of 15, it has been an absolute honour and privilege to wear the red dragon on my shirt. I’ve been blessed to play with and alongside so many great players and people over the years.

“Surrounded by an amazing togetherness between players, backroom staff and fans, we created one big family and achieved incredible success. Going to two European championships and a World Cup was beyond my wildest dreams, but it was all made possible together.

“I am forever grateful for the opportunities I was given by Osian Roberts & Brian Flynn in the youth teams and to Gary Speed, Chris Coleman, Ryan Giggs and Rob Page at senior level.

“Finally, thank you to the Wales fans for sticking by me from the start. You welcomed me into the family from day one and we have shared so many special memories ever since.

“To have my name sung by so many Welsh fans meant the world to me and I thank you for everything.”