Swansea City head coach Russell Martin has admitted Rhys Williams' lack of game time is nothing 'personal' as he urged the youngster to remain patient for opportunities.
The Liverpool defender joined the Championship side on loan at the start of the season, having played a heroic role in Jurgen Klopp's side securing Champions League football last season.
Williams played 19 times for the Reds in all competitions last campaign as the side faced an injury crisis in defence, resulting in an unlikely partnership being formed alongside Nat Phillips.
READ MORE: Liverpool land £35m transfer bonus as Erling Haaland plan changes
LIVE: Erling Haaland boost, Aguibou Camara 'scouted', Dusan Vlahovic interest
With the likes of Joel Matip and Virgil van Dijk returning to action for the start of the 2021/22 season and the summer arrival of Ibrahima Konate, however, it became clear that first-team chances would be limited.
Swansea were chosen as his destination for this term, but he has featured just three times in the league and has played no part in the team's last six fixtures.
Addressing the frustrating situation Williams finds himself in, the Swans' coach admitted that the youngster will return to Liverpool a 'better player' regardless.
“Rhys came straight in for us and started, then got an injury and then had a really difficult afternoon at Luton followed by a difficult week after suffering racist abuse, which is a disgrace,” Martin told WalesOnline.
“Since then he’s found it really tough to get in. The guys have been in such good form. That’s football, that’s life.
“But Rhys understands where we’re at. He’s a brilliant boy and I think, whatever happens, he’ll go back to Liverpool a better player for his experience.
“He’s developed more resilience. And he’s really happy here, by the way."
A number of other Liverpool loanees have found themselves in a similar situation this season, though Paul Glatzel can act as the evidence to suggest that fortunes can change.
The 20-year-old striker was struggling to earn the trust of Tranmere Rovers manager Micky Mellon, but has finally been given his first-team break and is thriving in attack.
Williams' chance to impress could soon arrive, and Martin has stressed that the Liverpool defender must be ready to deliver should this be the case.
“Yes, he wants to play more football, but him and his girlfriend both enjoy the area. I think he’s enjoying the club and what we’re trying to do," said the Swansea boss.
“At this moment in time he has to wait for his opportunity, but that’s football sometimes.
“It’s never anything personal. Football is about competition, working hard for your place and then when you get it, especially in this team, you have to really take it."
