Wales boss earns praise for keeping faith in former Crystal Palace and Charlton attacker

AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson has praised Robert Page for keeping faith with Jonny Williams despite the former Crystal Palace and Charlton midfielder dropping down to League Two.

Jackson was assistant to Lee Bowyer at Charlton Athletic, with Williams featuring 66 times during his time at the Valley.

Williams, 29, made the move to Swindon Town, in League Two, following his release from Championship side Cardiff at the end of the 2020-21 season.

The attacking midfielder progressed through the ranks at Crystal Palace and made 70 appearances for the Eagles.

Since joining Swindon, Williams has put his injury problems behind him and recorded 20 goal contributions in 63 outings, with Page bringing him to the 2022 World Cup.

Only two League Two players – Williams and AFC Wimbledon defender Chris Gunter – have been selected for the tournament in Qatar.

Wales start their World Cup campaign against USA this evening.

Jackson also coached former Charlton midfielder Tom Lockyer, who has also been named in Page’s 26-man squad following his performances for Luton Town.

“I’m delighted – they’re two lads that I know well and have worked with,” Jackson told the South London Press.

“I’m really fond of them, and they’re two really good players.

“Jonny has had some bad injuries that he has had to overcome. He has dropped down to League Two at the minute. He and Chris [Gunter] had the same feeling that if they did drop down, would they still get picked?

“But credit to both of them for maintaining their form. It’s a credit to Rob Page, too, for not letting that be a hindrance in picking them.

“They deserve their places in the squad and I hope they do well.”