Williams has one eye on South Africa

Last updated : 27 March 2010 By Northern Echo

Wish it was four Brazilian internationals, said the deadpan Boro boss, whose side this afternoon face relegation- haunted Watford who themselves boast USA regular Jay DeMerit in their ranks.

Scott McDonald's hamstring problem robs Boro of the services of their Australia marksman but they are still able to field his international team-mates Williams and Brad Jones while New Zealand's star striker Chris Killen will lead the visitors' attack.

Williams admits he already has half an eye on the prospect of featuring on the biggest sporting stage in the world and whatever Boro's status at the end of the season he can reflect on a hugely successful campaign.

Unless he helps steer Strachan's side back to the Premier League, however, this campaign will be regarded by supporters as the most disappointing since Lennie Lawrence failed to secure a return to the top flight in 1993.

After being regarded as a fringe player at the start of the season Williams is targeting glory at club and international level.

Good season for me, could be a bad one for the club football is all about ups and downs, said the 21-year-old midfielder, who operates as a right-back for the Socceroos.

On a personal level, it's been a huge success, beyond my wildest dreams. We still haven't written off promotion but I suppose for Boro fans, it's been a disappointing season so far.

In pre-season, I wasn't considered anything more than a back-up player for my club but here I am with the possibility of the play-offs and a Wembley appearance and on the verge of the biggest sporting event in the world.

Having four Boro players up there with the best in the world can only help when we try to recruit players in the summer. There can't be another Championship club with four players in the World Cup. It will certainly lift our profile, noted the former Wales Under-21 who is eligible to play for England, Wales, Australia and India.

Dad is English, his dad was born in Wales, mum was born in India and I'm Australian.

There may be more for all I know!

I played for the Wales Under-21s, once Australia came knocking my heart was set. India was never an option.

No disrespect they aren't professional enough.

They aren't going anywhere at the moment. And while I was in a decent Wales Under- 21 side, the fact is I've got my head and heart in Australia.

At the moment I see myself as a midfielder. The Aussie coach likes me at right-back and the gaffer li- Akes me in midfield so as long as I am playing, I am happy.

Source: Northern Echo

Source: Northern Echo