Everton have confirmed that Joe Williams has been sold to Wigan Athletic for an undisclosed fee.
Williams has never made a competitive appearance for the Toffees, but did score against Kariobangi Sharks in Kenya and started against FC Sion this pre-season – while he was also an important part of the U23s side that won Premier League 2 in 2016/17.
The 22-year-old is the second Everton academy graduate to join Wigan, following USMNT left-back Antonee Robinson.
Williams has had two loan spells away from Goodison Park, first at Barnsley and then Bolton Wanderers, as per WhoScored.
During his time with Bolton, the midfielder started 29 matches and came on as a substitute once, providing two assists for his teammates.
He was a useful player for the Trotters, especially defensively, as he made 2.7 tackles, 1.3 interceptions, 1.3 clearances and 0.6 blocks per game. To put some of that into perspective, only Mark Little averaged more tackles per game (4) in Bolton’s squad, showing just how good Williams was when it came to trying to win the ball back.
The 22-year-old could also impact a game higher up the pitch, as he made 0.9 key passes and 1.1 dribbles on average.
However, this was not deemed enough to convince Marco Silva he should keep the academy graduate at Everton past pre-season.
It is disappointing to see a player leave the academy without having made a competitive appearance, though this is the best move for Williams’ career.
Having been loaned out twice, he will now be able to settle at a club where he can look to make a longer-term impact.
Everton fans, sad to see Williams go? Let us know in the comment section below!
