Bengaluru FC signs Australian attacker Ryan Williams

Bengaluru FC announced the signing of Australian attacker Ryan Williams on a one-year deal with an optional one-year extension on Friday.

Williams, who most recently turned out for Perth Glory FC in the A-League, has had stints across clubs in Australia and England, was part of Australia’s U20 and U23 teams, and has been capped by the Socceroos.

“I’m excited to sign for Bengaluru FC. The club’s ambition aligns with mine and it’s what pushed it over the line. I’ve been in contact with a few people at the club and they’ve made me feel welcome before I’ve even got there. I get a really good feeling about the club and everyone connected to the club,” Williams said, after the completion of formalities on his deal.

Having started his career with Perth Redstar FC (formerly ECU Joondalup) alongside brothers Aryn and Rhys, Williams moved to England and signed a scholarship deal with Portsmouth Academy as a 16-year-old, in 2010.

“I have a few mates who have played in India, and they have said nothing but good things about the League and especially about Bengaluru. I’ve heard the West Block is unreal on matchday so I’m excited to see it when I’m on the pitch! Coming to Bengaluru gives me an unbelievable chance to win silverware, especially with the manager we have, and having Sunil Chhetri on your team helps as well! I know the BFC fans are passionate and love the club, and I’m looking forward to meeting them,” Williams added.

Williams was promoted to the Pompey first team the following year and made six appearances in the Championship before moving to Fulham in 2012. Loan stints at Gillingham, Oxford United, and Barnsley would follow, before a permanent move to the Tykes in 2015. Williams was part of the Barnsley side that gained promotion to the Championship in 2016.

“We're delighted to sign Ryan. He's a versatile player who can play in several attacking positions and also in midfield if needed. He's a player who I know well from his days in England. He's experienced and was hungry to come to India and Bengaluru FC when I spoke to him about the opportunity. He's got a fantastic winning mentality and attitude towards the sport, and I'm looking forward to working with him,” said Blues’ boss Simon Grayson.

Bengaluru, who announced the signing of English striker Curtis Main last week, has now further bolstered their attack with Williams, who was part of the EFL League One Playoff in 2018 with Rotherham and finished runners-up in the EFL Trophy on his return to Portsmouth in 2020.