Rhys Williams completes Aberdeen FC transfer as Liverpool star reveals Leighton Clarkson swung it

Rhys Williams has revealed how Leighton Clarkson sold him on a loan move to Aberdeen as he becomes their fifth summer signing.

The defender, 22, has joined from Liverpool on a season-long deal. The former England under-21 cap admitted his former Anfield teammate and the chance to play Europa League group stage football were big factors in his switch to Pittodrie. Williams said: “I’m really pleased to be here. When I knew there was an opportunity to come to Aberdeen on loan I spoke to Leighton Clarkson and he couldn’t speak highly enough about his experience.

“I actually met some of the boys during the summer so there will be a few familiar faces in the dressing room which I’m sure will help me settle quickly. There’s a lot to look forward to this season, particularly with European football, and I can’t wait to get started and show everyone what I am capable of.”

The central defender will fill the void after Aberdeen lost Liam Scales and Mattie Pollock back to their parent clubs in the summer. Williams, who has had loan spells at Swansea and Blackpool, becomes Aberdeen’s fifth signing. Robson has already brought in Graeme Shinnie, Clarkson on a permanent from Liverpool, Ester Sokler and Nicky Devlin.

Robson reckons Clarkson’s successful loan and the sale of Calvin Ramsay to Liverpool have opened the door to this latest deal. “Coming from Liverpool, Rhys joins us with a great pedigree,” Robson insisted. "He’s athletic, tall and we think we can improve him and give him the platform to continue his development. I’ve no doubt he’ll become a real asset for the team.

“We’ve developed a good understanding with Liverpool, and I think they trust us with their players. The squad is starting to take shape now ahead of what will be