Williams form a worry for Wales

Although Gareth Bale may have grabbed most of the headlines as Wales qualified for Euro 2016, captain Ashley Williams was just as important at the back.

The Swansea star produced a string of heroic performances in the heart of the back three and used his experience and leadership qualities to marshall his troops, as they conceded just four goals in qualifying.

However, since then he has looked somewhat uncertain at times, in what has been a truly mixed campaign for his club side.

The sacking of his old team-mate Garry Monk before Christmas was the culmination of a difficult few months for the Swans and although results have improved under Alan Curtis and Francesco Guidolin, Williams still appears to be lacking form.

Despite this, he will quite rightly be relied upon by Wales boss Chris Coleman in France and will surely be inspired by the prospect of taking on England in the group stages.

The Dragons are currently 5.50 to top Group B, with the Three Lions the 1.80 favourites ahead of Russia at 4.00 and Slovakia trailing in the betting at 11.00.

Their counter-attacking approach, which is designed to get the best out of Bale and Aaron Ramsey, means extra pressure will undoubtedly be placed on the defence.

Williams will take it upon himself to ensure the rearguard stays strong but after a less than consistent season, he may need to rediscover his confidence.

Swansea’s 3-1 win over Liverpool on Sunday may have given him some much-needed belief but the 31-year-old will know that ahead of his first major tournament, he still has a number of areas to work on.