Rhys Williams’ priority in his first season at Melbourne Victory is clear.
“First things first, I want to win trophies and do well for the club.”
While speculation around his move to Victory has tended to centre around making a push for a spot in a potential World Cup squad, the 28-year-old has put that goal in the distance.
“My sole focus now is to get fit and get in this Victory team,” Williams said.
“I believe everything happens for a reason and if we’re doing well here, then who knows?
“But I’m not pinning my hopes on getting in there, it’s not something that I think about all the time.
“I believe if things are going well here they’ll fall into place.”
Pre-season started for Victory on Thursday, giving Williams a chance to meet some of his new teammates.
“(The first two days have) been good, coming in to meet the boys and we’re a bit light at the minute with a couple of boys still away from international duty.
“It’s good to come in and start from day one, get to know the boys and we want a big season and winning some trophies.”
Victory’s season starts with a bang; home games against Sydney FC and City in the first fortnight.
It’ll be Williams’ first chance to play in a Melbourne Derby.
“I can’t wait. Seeing the fixtures pop up and that coming in the second game of the season is great.
“The first two games are huge and we can make a statement. We look forward to that, we’ve got a tough couple of months pre-season first to get us right.”
Meanwhile Williams has the opportunity to adjust to life in the city of Melbourne.
“I love (Melbourne). It’s a big city and I’ve never lived in a big city. Adapting to more traffic than normal,” Williams joked.
“We moved over about a week to 10 days ago and me and my family love it.”
