sevendayweekender – National League side Eastleigh have signed former Wales midfielder Jonny Williams on a contract until the end of the season.
The 32-year-old arrives at Eastleigh after spending the past three seasons with League Two club Gillingham. During his time there, Williams made 106 appearances across all competitions and scored three goals.
Williams brings extensive experience from across the English football pyramid. Having played in the Premier League, Championship and League Two during his career.
Williams brings Premier League and international experience
Began his professional career with Crystal Palace and made appearances in the Premier League before gaining further experience through several loan spells in the Championship.
His temporary moves included periods with Ipswich Town. Nottingham Forest and Sunderland, giving the midfielder valuable experience at the second tier of English football. Those spells also allowed him to gain regular first-team experience and develop his understanding of the demands of competitive English football.
In 2018, Williams made a permanent move to Charlton Athletic before joining Cardiff City in February 2021. He moved to Swindon Town six months later before eventually joining Gillingham.
Across his club career, Williams has made 403 appearances and scored 23 goals. His experience also extends to the international stage, having represented Wales 33 times and scored twice. That combination of domestic and international experience could prove valuable as Williams begins a new chapter with Eastleigh.
Euro 2016 highlight
One of the most memorable periods of Williams’ career came with the Wales national team at Euro 2016.
He was part of the squad that reached the semi-finals in France, marking one of the most successful tournament runs in Welsh football history. Wales produced several notable performances during the competition, while Williams gained valuable experience competing on one of the biggest stages in European football.
Williams was also selected for Wales’ squads at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup. However, he remained an unused substitute at both tournaments. Despite limited playing opportunities at those major competitions, his inclusion reflected the experience he had built throughout his international career.
Now, Williams will look to bring his experience to Eastleigh for the remainder of the season as the National League club strengthens its squad with an experienced midfielder. His arrival could provide additional depth and leadership as Eastleigh continue their campaign and look to achieve their objectives for the remainder of the season.
