Liverpool: What is the reason for Rhys Williams’ recall to Anfield?

Liverpool have recalled young centre-back, Rhys Williams, from Championship side, Swansea City. What could be the reason surrounding the Reds strange transfer strategy with this move?

The Liverpool transfer committee has negotiated with Swansea City for the return of 20-year-old, soon to be 21, Rhys Williams. The player spent the last six months in Wales with the Swans and was supposed to remain there for the entire campaign, completing a season-long loan back in August last year on deadline day.

"Liverpool defender Rhys Williams has been recalled from his loan spell with Swansea City.The centre-back featured on seven occasions during his time at the Championship team after making the move on transfer deadline day last August.  (Via: liverpoolfc.com)"

So what would be the reason behind Liverpool recalling a player that needs maximum game time to progress? One scenario could be his lack of game time; since making the switch to Swansea back in August, he’s enjoyed limited game time.

The promising defender who was one of last season’s heroes only featured eight times for the Swans, starting six of the eight games. Sadly, this was largely down to him not making the impact he was supposed to, failing to impress the manager Russell Martin.

So could this be the only reason that Liverpool have recalled Rhys Williams or could there be another reason why?

Another explanation Liverpool could have summoned Rhys Williams back

What most fans are going with: they believe Williams’ heroic partner in crime from last term, Nat Philipps, is almost certainly out the door at Anfield. Liverpool have already rejected two offers from Watford for Philipps.

The Hornets are reportedly not meeting their evaluation of £15m for their employee — making it clear they will not budge on the asking price — but he will still not be short offers as many other clubs are showing interest in him.

"Liverpool have rejected two bids for Nat Phillips as the defender looks increasingly set to leave Anfield in January.The Reds’ asking-price for the centre-back, who has made 24 appearances for Liverpool, remains at £15m, with it understood sporting director Michael Edwards points to the £12m sum Burnley paid Stoke City for Nathan Collins last summer. (Via: liverpoolecho.co.uk)"

All players want to play

Despite the centre-back pairing being dubbed cult heroes for helping the Reds reach the top four and making the Champions League group stages, it was foreseen that the duo would undoubtedly be limited to game time — especially with the arrival of Ibrahima Konate last summer and the return of first-team players from long injury layoffs.

This also helped manager Jurgen Klopp be incredibly open about his (Nat Phillips) transfer situation and vowed not to stand his way as he searches for regular minutes on the pitch. A transfer was on the cards for some time now but a Rhys Williams loan cut short was never part of the deal until now.

So why do they need him back on their books and ready for selection at Anfield? Could be because of the trouble faced over the last couple of months or so, having to postponed matches due to having little personnel to select from.

That, and the fact he hasn’t really been playing at the Swansea.com Stadium, his chances could be better at his parent club.

It could be one of the reasons mentioned above, or it can be a mix of the lot. Either way, this does signal the call for some more transfer business for Liverpool — but more outgoings rather than incomings.