Wales star Liam Williams has confirmed he’s officially on the lookout for a new club after his latest stint with Saracens was cut short due to injury.
Competition: Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia
The 33-year-old full-back returned to North London in November following a spell in Japan but managed just one game before being struck down with a knee injury during Wales’ Six Nations opener against France.
One game, one injury, no comeback (yet)
Williams hasn’t played since that bruising February clash but revealed on the Sportin Wales podcast, hosted by his former international teammate Alex Cuthbert, that he’s well on the road to recovery.
“I had surgery on my knee 12 weeks ago. I had an MRI yesterday and should get the results of that this morning — and it all feels great,” said Williams.
“I’ll be looking for a club after that. It’s nice going into training. I’ve enjoyed it over the last 12 years, so if there’s any clubs out there who want me for an extra year, sign me up.”
Capped 93 times and counting
The 93-cap veteran isn’t done with the international stage either, with his sights still set on one major personal milestone — 100 Wales caps.
“My aim is to get 100 caps for Wales,” he told WalesOnline earlier this year. “If that happens, it’s the icing on the cake. If it doesn’t, then that’s just the way it is — but that’s my aim.”
Japan tour in doubt?
Despite his upbeat recovery news, it’s not yet clear if Williams will be fit in time for Wales’ summer tour to Japan, with the squad expected to be a mix of seasoned internationals and fresh faces.
With Saracens opting not to extend his deal and the clock ticking towards the new season, it could be now or never for clubs seeking a back-three operator with World Cup and Lions experience.
What’s next for Liam?
Williams, who previously played for Saracens between 2017 and 2020, is hoping to land a short-term deal as he continues his recovery and pushes for that magical century in red.
Cuthbert summed it up best:
“Hopefully you’ll be picked up. I’m sure there are plenty of clubs out there looking for an experienced man like yourself.”
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The Unpicked XV: 2025 British & Irish Lions Tour to Australia
1. Nicky Smith (Wales)
An experienced loosehead with over 50 caps for Wales, Smith remains one of the most consistent scrummagers in the game.
2. Jamie George (England)
The veteran hooker and 2021 Lions tourist missed out this time despite being one of England's most reliable performers and a respected leader.
3. Kyle Sinckler (England)
Known for his explosive ball-carrying and fiery passion, Sinckler’s form and location overseas weren’t enough to secure a third Lions tour.
4. Jonny Gray (Scotland)
A lineout expert and tackling machine, Gray has struggled with injuries recently, ruling him out of contention for Australia.
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5. Grant Gilchrist (Scotland)
One of Scotland’s most experienced locks, Gilchrist’s leadership and work rate have been invaluable, but he misses out once more.
6. Courtney Lawes (England)
A Lions stalwart and former England captain, Lawes confirmed his international retirement earlier this year, ending his Lions journey.
7. Jack Willis (England)
A breakdown menace with a relentless engine, Willis has impressed abroad but may have missed out due to playing outside the UK.
8. Taulupe Faletau (Wales)
One of the finest No.8s of his generation, Faletau has been sidelined through injury, robbing him of a potential fourth Lions tour.
9. Ben White (Scotland)
Scotland's first-choice scrum-half has been a steady performer internationally, but couldn't edge out the fierce competition for the Lions.
10. Owen Farrell (England)
The former Lions captain and England centurion ruled himself out of international duty in late 2024, prioritising family and mental wellbeing.
11. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England)
A breakout star of the 2024 Six Nations, the young wing lit up the tournament but narrowly missed selection on this occasion.
12. Robbie Henshaw / Manu Tuilagi (Ireland/England)
Both powerhouse centres boast extensive Lions pedigree. Henshaw’s injury woes and Tuilagi’s patchy form ultimately saw them miss out.
13. Henry Slade (England)
One of the most elegant and versatile backs in the northern hemisphere, Slade is again overlooked despite consistent form.
14. Darcy Graham (Scotland)
The dynamic utility back has added polish to his raw talent but couldn’t squeeze into the highly competitive Lions back three.
15. George Furbank (England)
A confident and elusive fullback, Furbank’s excellent form under Steve Borthwick wasn’t quite enough to force a late inclusion.
Quiz: Name these 10 retro British & Irish Lions rugby players
Rugby history runs deep, and the British & Irish Lions have produced some of the most iconic players to ever grace the pitch. But can you spot a Lions legend from a lineup?
Test your knowledge with this quiz! For each question, we’ll give you three possible answers—only one is correct.
Think you’ve got what it takes to ace this retro challenge? Let’s find out!
