British & Irish Lions hero can't find a job and admits it's 'starting to hit home'

Wales and former British & Irish Lions full-back Liam Williams is struggling to find a club for the upcoming season and is currently training on his own. After spending the summer with Cardiff, his former club has informed him that they have no room for him in their squad.

Williams, 34, hasn't been on the pitch since he sustained a knee injury during a Six Nations match against France, representing Wales. Following an early return from Japan due to the birth of his first child, he had signed a short-term contract with Saracens. Now, he's opened up about the mental struggles he's facing after finding himself without a job for the first time in his illustrious career.

Speaking to the BBC, he said: "I've still got quite a bit left and I'd like to get back on the horse for another year or two so I can end my career on a high.

"I've never been without a job before and it's really starting to hit home now that games are starting up. I just want to play. I am working hard in training every day but it's not the same on your own, I miss being part of a squad.

"Honestly, last week I was struggling mentally because I had been in with Cardiff and loved every second. Then that suddenly stopped because my insurance ran out and I was back at the Vale with nothing on the table.

"None of the regions were particularly keen and I was just like 'why am I doing all this training when there is no end in sight?' I was struggling but conversations with my agent, my wife and my mum and dad really helped."

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Williams is adamant that it's not about the money at this stage of his career and he still harbours a burning desire to reach 100 caps for Wales. Currently on 93, he's also eager to lend his expertise in a coaching and mentor role to the younger generation.

He expressed his wish to contribute to the Welsh regions but was rejected by Cardiff, "even though I'm really cheap". He concedes that playing for Wales again will be unattainable without a club.

"I fear that the international ship has sailed," admitted Williams.

"If I start playing regularly and there are some injuries in the back three then Steve (Tandy) may give me a call."

Having worked with Tandy during the Lions tour to South Africa in 2021, Williams knows him well and believes he's an excellent choice as the new Wales coach, describing him as "very passionate, productive and positive".