Everton loan Williams to Stoke

Stoke City have signed Wales international Ashley Williams on a season-long loan from Everton.

Williams, 33, joined Everton from Swansea City for a reported fee of £12million in 2016, having helped Wales reach the semi-finals of Euro 2016.

The centre-back, rumoured to be a long-term target for Arsenal during his time with the Swans, will be tasked with helping Stoke return to the top flight after their relegation from the Premier League last season.

The arrival of Williams follows the permanent signing of Oghenekaro Etebo, Tom Ince, Adam Federici and James McClean, while Benik Afobe has also moved to Stoke on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

“We have two very good senior central defenders in Ryan Shawcross and Bruno Martins Indi but I felt it was important we brought in another experienced player to add to the competition for places,” Stoke manager Gary Rowett said in a statement.

“He has gone for big money in the past and had a fantastic a career so far and experience in that position can be key because it can help you read the game.”

“The Championship is a very difficult league but it’s one that for us a Club we will be looking to try and win promotion.”

Ashley Williams has his sights firmly fixed on one thing after becoming a Potter

Full interview https://t.co/Y4VLXPi9W2#SCFC pic.twitter.com/F626p7wn34

— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) August 2, 2018

Williams made 60 Premier League appearances during his two years at Goodison Park, having also been a stalwart and first-team regular during an eight-year stay with Swansea.