Remember Williams as a Swansea great

First-team coach Alan Curtis has urged Swansea City supporters not to be bitter about Ashley Williams’ departure to Everton.

The 31-year-old, who moved from Stockport County to Swansea for £400,000 in May 2008 following a successful loan spell, joined Everton today for £12million.

With winger Andre Ayew having moved to West Ham United just 48 hours early, Swansea threaten to be in disarray ahead of Saturday’s season opener at Burnley.

But Curtis is keen that Williams, who made more than 350 appearances for the Swans, continues to be held in high esteem.

“Ash is one of the best defenders we have ever had, if not the best,” Curtis said.

(Tom Shaw/Getty Images)

“People always talk about legend status – sometimes it seems as though you can become a legend in six months these days.

“But I think that has to come over a period of time.

“You have to do it over a sustained period to become what I would regard as a true legend, and I think Ash has fulfilled all the criteria as far as legend status goes.

“There is no doubt about it, he is one of the best players who has ever played for this club.

“His consistency and the number of games he played were very impressive. He has hardly missed a game since he has been with us.”