Leon lauds Williams' captain's performance

18th January

Leon Britton hailed the influence of Swans skipper Ashley Williams as the Swans secured a vital 1-0 victory over Watford.

Williams' 28th-minute header was enough to separate the two sides at the Liberty Stadium, while he was once again an immense presence at the heart of defence as the home side saw off late pressure from the visitors.

And Britton praised the Swans captain for leading by example during a difficult period for the club.



"He (Williams) was brilliant today," said Britton. "He was fantastic in both boxes for us, and when you need your captain to stand out, he did just that.

"He is someone we look to in tough times and we need that leader on and off the pitch.

"It has been a difficult time for all of us, but he has led by example once again tonight and showed just how big he is for us.

"He and Fede (Fernandez) did well to keep their two strikers contained throughout the game and both were strong defensively."

Meanwhile, Britton felt the victory would prove a "massive" boost for everyone connected with the club and highlighted the Swansea faithful's magnificent support on the night as key in helping the Swans secure a positive result.

"It was a massive victory for us," he added. "It was important that we got three points to get ourselves back out of the relegation zone.

"It was a tense game, especially in the second half but we showed good character and spirit. It wasn't pretty at times, but we dug in and earned a vital three points.

"We needed a big reaction from everyone tonight. Not only did the players show that, but the fans did too - they were fantastic.

"When times are tough and you are struggling, you need the fans in your corner to get you over the line."