After 16 remarkable seasons, Craig Williams has made the difficult decision to conclude his playing career at Newtown AFC, the club he has called home since making his debut at the age of 16.

The departure of the 34-year-old Welsh footballer marks the end of an era and sees him transition into a new role as the club's Head of Coaching, overseeing the development of future Newtown stars.

Williams leaves Newtown as the club's leading appearance record holder, having featured in an impressive 504 league games and making 10 appearances in European competitions. As a testament to his leadership qualities, Williams captained the club in six of their European adventures. His contributions were instrumental in helping Newtown AFC achieve its Category A license, a significant milestone for the club.

Manager Chris Hughes expressed his admiration for Williams, describing him as the embodiment of Newtown AFC and everything that is good about the club. The decision to part ways was undoubtedly challenging for both player and manager, but Hughes commended Williams for his professionalism throughout the process. He acknowledged Williams' significant impact on the team, highlighting his role as a brilliant captain and one of the league's best right-backs.

While bidding farewell to his playing career at Newtown, Williams expressed gratitude towards the club and its staff. In a heartfelt statement, he emphasized the difficulty of his decision to leave his hometown club, but stressed that it was the right time to pursue regular first-team football. Williams still believes he has much to offer as a player and seeks to maximize his playing time elsewhere.

Williams extended his thanks to the coaching staff, physiotherapists, and support personnel who played a crucial role in his Newtown journey. Together, they achieved remarkable milestones, including three European adventures and a Welsh Cup final appearance. Williams credited their unwavering support and acknowledged that these achievements would not have been possible without their dedication.

The Welsh footballer also expressed his gratitude to the players he shared the dressing room with, emphasizing the friendships forged during his time at Newtown. He cherished the special moments and experiences they shared together, which will forever hold a place in his heart.

Finally, Williams expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the loyal supporters and volunteers who stood by him and the club through thick and thin. Their unwavering dedication and passion have left an indelible mark on his journey. While he looks forward to the next chapter in his football career, Williams assured everyone that Newtown AFC would always hold a special place in his heart.

Picture: BBC Sport