Williams enjoying his central role (From Worcester News)

Williams enjoying his central role

2:00pm Friday 3rd February 2012 in News

HARRIERS captain Mike Williams is enjoying his switch to central defence as he gears up for tomorrow’s FA Trophy clash against Luton Town.

The 25-year-old has made an impressive return to the side at the heart of the central defence after two frustrating months on the sidelines.

The Welsh stopper was Harriers’ first-choice left-back up until the start of October when he sustained a back and hip injury in their home league to Luton.

With the emergence of Mickey Demetriou, Williams then had to watch from the bench after he had recovered.

But he has not looked back since returning at centre back in Harriers’ 5-1 win over Droylsden in the FA Trophy.

The Ex-Wrexham man said: “I can play in either position, but when I came to the club I had mainly played as a centre back for Wrexham and Wales under-21s.

“But the manager was looking for a left-back and I was happy to play in that position.

“To be honest I’m more comfortable playing in central defence.

“When I got my chance to play again it was a case of getting my match fitness back but I am hoping for an extended run in the side now.

“I like to think of myself as some who doesn’t get injured so to pick up two was frustrating.

“I’ve had to work very hard with physio Gavin Crowe to get fit.

“I’ve had to bide my time on the bench, so when I was had a chance to get back into the side, I’ve taken it.

“I can’t complain, Mickey [Demetriou] has done very well over the last few months and he’s deserved his place in the side.”

Harriers will be without defender Tom Sharpe after injuring knee ligaments in Saturday’s loss at Stockport but Lee Vaughan looks set to make a return to the side after a three-week injury absence.

Tony Breeden, Anthony Malbon, Lee Hendrie and new signing Marvin Johnson, are all cup-tied. Dean Lyness will come as keeper.

Williams would also relish some pay back against the Hatters after sustaining his problems during October’s defeat.

With a chance of the last eight up grabs, victory would ramp up the Trophy excitement.

He added: “It was unfortunate when we played Luton last injuries to myself and Luke Jones disrupted us.

“We know Luton are a good side and have a big squad but we’re playing well and the moment and there’s a reason why we’re in the top five.

“Everybody’s thinking about Wembley but all we can do is make sure we get past Luton and take the league and Trophy one game at a time.

“A win over them would lay a marker down to say we can beat any side in the top five.”

Since defeat to Gary Brabin’s Bedfordshire-based outfit, Harriers are unbeaten in 11 home games.

Meanwhile, the good form of Demetriou and Jamille Matt has seen them selected for England C's clash against Italy on February 28 at Fleetwood's Highbury Stadium.

Shuttle Online will have live match updates from tomorrow’s FA Trophy clash (3pm kick-off).

For those on www.twitter.com, we'll also keep you up to date with goals, action and the final score. Simply log on and follow sports editor Peter McKinney on @PeteMc78