I stayed at Scarlets for Wales dream - Williams

Johnny Williams won his ninth cap in Wales' win against Japan

Johnny Williams stayed at Scarlets to pursue his Wales dream having considered leaving when he found himself out in the cold when it came to the international set-up.

The 28-year-old centre helped Wales end their 18-match losing streak this summer in July after being recalled for the summer tour to Japan.

Williams won his eighth and ninth caps under interim head coach Matt Sherratt, who is now full-time attack coach under new boss Steve Tandy.

The Scarlets man remains an option for Wales after signing a new contract at the end of last season.

The desire for Test rugby was a major factor in staying despite falling down the pecking order under previous boss Warren Gatland, who had not selected him since the 2023 World Cup.

Asked if there was a temptation to leave because of Wales frustrations, Williams replied: "Yeah, there was definitely that, but at the same time I leant back on my reasons why and that was still international rugby.

"From the age of six my dad took me to Principality Stadium and we had a debenture there.

"My reason why was to be on that pitch in front of 74,000 fans, so I kept going and wanted to give it one more shot. Luckily I did."

Williams, who started alongside Cardiff's Ben Thomas in Japan, faces stiff competition at club level in the shape of new signing Joe Hawkins, Joe Roberts and Macs Page.

With Scarlets' Eddie James out injured, other midfield options for the autumn are Gloucester's Max Llewellyn, Saracens' Nick Tompkins and Ospreys' Kieran Williams.

"There is midfield competition at Scarlets and it's amplified at international level," said Johnny Williams.

"No spots are guaranteed and you always have to be fit, ready and fighting for a spot here, let alone at international level."

Frozen out at end of Gatland era

Williams faced Portugal at the World Cup and then played in the uncapped Barbarians fixture before falling out of favour with Gatland.

He looked to add to his game to get back into the Wales squad, but also realised the importance of being himself.

"I asked for feedback and took on the constructive criticism on board," he said.

"I worked on a lot of things, but also tried to stay confident in what I can bring. I wanted to do what I do best, amplify that and showcase it more."

Williams gets the chance to stake a claim for Wales action this autumn against unbeaten Stormers in Llanelli on Friday.

Scarlets, who lost their URC opener to Munster and had their round-two trip to Connacht postponed, finish the first block in South Africa against Lions and Sharks.