Steven Gerrard says Liverpool made a big transfer mistake on live TV, and fans agree with him.
Steven Gerrard thinks Liverpool made a mistake by selling Neco Williams to Nottingham Forest. The two were reunited during an emotional chat on TNT Sports.
Williams went back to Anfield on Saturday, four years after leaving his childhood club to join Forest for £17 million. The 25-year-old joined Liverpool’s academy when he was six but had trouble breaking into the first team before leaving in 2022. He played 33 games for the Reds in total.
Since then, Williams has become a regular starter at Forest. After a fantastic 2025-26 season, Tottenham are even interested in signing him before the transfer deadline on Tuesday.
Before the match on Saturday, Williams joined Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard for an interview on TNT Sports. Gerrard, who coached him as a youngster, was asked if he saw Williams’ talent early on. “I did,” Gerrard said. “I told his parents he was not only incredibly talented but also a great person. He’s a real example for any young player chasing their dream. Though he wanted to make it here at Liverpool, he had to face a setback and move on.”
Gerrard continued: “He grabbed the chance with both hands, grew a lot, and now I think he’s one of the best full-backs in the league.”
Williams praised Gerrard’s impact on his career again, but Gerrard jumped in to add, “This player trains hard, works professionally every day, and is a true competitor. We already knew he had the talent, but mixing that with hard work means he can keep playing at this level. I don’t think he’s reached his peak yet. At his age, with more experience and games, he can get even better.
“He’s doing great on the left side, but imagine what he could do on the right side! He’s a fantastic full-back. I’m sorry to Forest fans, but Liverpool should have kept him.”
Fans quickly agreed with Gerrard’s honest words. One said, “Thanks, Stevie. We needed some truth here.” Another added, “I totally agree. Out of all the full-backs I’ve watched closely in the Premier League over the past two years—like Reece James and Timber—Williams is one of the best defenders.”
Others chimed in: “He’s spot on. Frimpong and Kerkez can’t match Neco’s level,” and, “Gerrard’s right. Liverpool’s full-back options have been shaky, and Williams has really improved since leaving.”