Swans chase Cardiff City target

Mar 25 2008 by Simon Kendal-Williams, South Wales Echo

CARDIFF City are chasing Wales new boy Ashley Williams in a bid to bolster their injury-hit back-four – but they face competition from neighbours Swansea City.

The Stockport County defender has attracted rave reviews for his performances in League Two this term, resulting in a first call-up to John Toshack’s squad for tomorrow’s friendly in Luxembourg.

The 23-year-old revealed that City boss Dave Jones wants to sign him on loan until the end of the season – though he may face competition from the Bluebirds’ fiercest rivals.

“Both Swansea City and Cardiff City have shown an interest and are both massive clubs,” said the former West Brom trainee.

“I don’t really have a preference.

“I just want to play as hard as I can, and whoever shows an interest, I’ll weigh up the options. It may even be done by Thursday.”

The versatile six-foot defender would provide Jones with cover in a handful of positions as his wafer-thin squad makes one last push for the play-offs and FA Cup glory.

Most of his four seasons at Edgeley Park have been spent at centre-half, but Williams is comfortable anywhere at the back and played much of last season in centre midfield.

“I’m happy at Stockport,” said Williams, “and I’m not desperate to leave.

“But obviously I want to play at a higher level.

“I’m not too sure how the club feel about it, but the manager (Jim Gannon) is quite understanding.

“We’ll have to wait and see.”

He added: “Getting a Welsh cap was so far off my radar two years ago.

“Stockport were relegated to League Two, and then we only survived on the last day of the season.

“It would be great to get my first one against Luxembourg, but I’m really just happy to be here.”

simon.kendal-williams@mediawales.co.uk