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Former Manchester United Prospect Brandon Williams Faces Jail Sentence for Dangerous Driving
Ex-Manchester United footballer Brandon Williams is confronting a potential two-year prison term following a guilty plea to dangerous driving. The charges come after a high-speed incident, casting a shadow over the career of the once highly-regarded young player.
Guilty Plea and Impending Sentencing
Williams, aged 24, admitted to dangerous driving in court last week concerning an incident in August 2023. He was apprehended after crashing his vehicle at a reported speed of 99mph, allegedly under the influence and with a passenger present.
The footballer is scheduled to be sentenced next month where he will learn his fate. A custodial sentence could severely impede his aspirations to revitalise his professional footballing career.
Rapid Rise and Early Acclaim at Old Trafford
Released by Manchester United in the preceding summer transfer window, Williams’ journey at the club commenced promisingly. He rapidly emerged into the first-team picture during the 2019-20 campaign, making his debut as a teenager for the Red Devils.
His early performances swiftly garnered attention, notably from Manchester United icon Gary Neville.
Gary Neville’s High Praise
Renowned for his tenacious approach on the field, Williams’ initial season impressed Neville, who lauded the youngster’s fighting spirit and even quipped about his extreme competitiveness.
Following Williams’ standout display in Manchester United’s 1-0 FA Cup victory against Wolves in January 2020, Neville posted on social media, stating his admiration for Williams’ determined mentality and playing ability.
England Recognition and Subsequent Setbacks
Williams sustained his momentum throughout the latter part of that season, at times displacing the more seasoned Luke Shaw in the starting lineup, earning the trust of then-manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
His performances reportedly caught the eye of England national team manager Gareth Southgate, who considered Williams for a potential place in the Euros squad the following year.
However, the 2020-21 season proved less fruitful for Williams. He lost his place in the United team to Shaw and encountered injury problems.
Ultimately, he did not break into the England setup and consequently missed the European Championship.
Loan Spell and Club Exit
Williams was loaned to Norwich City for the 2021-22 season, where he featured regularly; however, the team suffered relegation from the Premier League. Upon his return to Manchester United, he found himself lower in the pecking order.
A challenging period ensued before Williams returned to public attention after criticising club legend Rio Ferdinand following Manchester City’s Treble win.
Social Media Spat and Current Situation
Williams appeared unimpressed by Manchester City achieving the Treble, particularly 24 years after Manchester United’s own feat, and subsequently directed comments at Ferdinand for praising City’s accomplishments.
In online posts, Williams expressed his disapproval of City’s achievement and questioned Ferdinand’s impartiality.
Last season saw Williams move to the Championship on loan, contributing to Ipswich Town’s promotion to the Premier League, although his first-team opportunities diminished after the New Year.
His association with Manchester United concluded last summer. Brandon Williams now awaits sentencing, facing a potentially transformative jail term after a significant downturn in fortunes.