SHAUN Williams has given the firmest indication yet that he is eager to sign a new deal with Millwall, saying this week: “I love the club”.
Williams is out of contract in the summer and the club have been in negotiations with his representatives for some time to try to agree a new contract.
The former Republic of Ireland underage international signed a two-and-a-half year deal when he joined Millwall from MK Dons in January 2014 before activating a one-year extension last season.
Williams lost his place in the Millwall side during 2015-16 after a booking at Rochdale led to suspension, with boss Neil Harris pairing Ben Thompson with Jimmy Abdou in central midfield in the latter part of the campaign.
But Williams has been almost an ever-present this season, playing in 32 of Millwall’s 34 League One fixtures.
Williams, 30, has also become a favourite with Lions fans for his ability in possession and his ball-winning qualities in midfield.
“I love it here,” Williams said. “I love the club and all the lads. I get on great with everyone and have a good relationship with the manager as well.
“Hopefully we can come to an agreement and sign on the dotted line.”
Harris has been busy shaping his long-term squad plans, and Jordan Archer, Mahlon Romeo, Ben Thompson and Aiden O’Brien have signed new deals this season.
Harris wants Williams to sign a new contract, with the midfielder’s experience of Championship football potentially key if Millwall are in the second tier next season.
“Talks are ongoing with Shaun,” Harris said. “He wants to stay, first and foremost, and I want him to stay.
“It’s about agreeing terms and making sure everything is right for everybody.
“Shaun is a top, top League One player and he will be a very good Championship player for us.
“He’s doing everything he can to help things along, as we are. There have been some really productive talks.
“He wants to stay, we want him to stay so it’s not necessary that it’s immediately overnight it needs doing.
“But we are trying to progress it to make sure he’s with us next season.”
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