Steven Gerrard Claims Liverpool Made a Major Transfer Mistake by Selling Neco Williams
Steven Gerrard has suggested that Liverpool made a costly mistake by allowing Neco Williams to leave the club, insisting the defender has developed into one of the Premier League’s top full-backs.
Gerrard made the comments during a TNT Sports interview before Liverpool faced Nottingham Forest, with Williams returning to Anfield four years after completing his £17 million move to Forest.
Williams, now 25, joined Liverpool’s academy at just six years old but found it difficult to secure regular first-team football. He eventually departed in the summer of 2022 after making 33 senior appearances for the Reds.
Since moving to Nottingham Forest, however, Williams has established himself as an important first-team player. Following an impressive 2025/26 campaign, his performances have reportedly attracted interest from Tottenham ahead of the transfer deadline.
Gerrard, who coached Williams during his time in Liverpool’s academy, praised the defender’s mentality and development.
The Liverpool legend explained that he had recognised Williams’ ability from a young age and even told his parents that they had an exceptional talent on their hands.
According to Gerrard, Williams responded brilliantly to the disappointment of leaving Liverpool, taking his opportunity at Forest and continuing to improve.
The former midfielder went on to describe Williams as one of the league’s best full-backs, highlighting his professionalism, competitiveness, aggression and winning mentality.
Gerrard also believes the defender still has plenty of room to improve, particularly given his age and growing experience.
Interestingly, Williams has largely been playing on the left side despite being more naturally suited to the right. Gerrard believes his potential could be even greater if he were deployed in his preferred position.
He then delivered his biggest verdict of the interview:
“Liverpool should have kept him.”
The comment quickly sparked agreement among Liverpool supporters, with several fans arguing that Williams’ development since leaving Anfield shows the club may have made the wrong decision.
Some supporters also questioned Liverpool’s current full-back options, suggesting Williams could have provided valuable depth and competition.
Gerrard’s comments are likely to reignite the debate among Liverpool fans over whether selling Williams was ultimately a mistake.
