Neco Williams joins Cefn Albion Christmas celebrations a day after helping Liverpool win Club World Cup

Just a day after helping Liverpool win the Fifa Club World Cup in Qatar, Neco Williams was back in his native North Wales joining in pre-Christmas celebrations with his local football team.

Wrexham-born Neco, 18, was part of the Reds squad on Saturday which beat Brazilian champions Flamengo 1-0 to land the prestigious trophy for the first time.

Although the Wales Under-19 cap, who wears 76 on his shirt, did not get onto the field, he was still part of the 23-man squad which made history at the Khalifa International Stadium.

Roberto Firmino struck in extra time to clinch the cup for Jurgen Klopp’s side.

The following day, Cefn Albion FC held their annual Christmas jumper event and Neco made sure he was there at the Cefn Mawr Community Social Club to enjoy the occasion.

After a short stay where he had numerous photos taken with his Club World Cup medal, Neco went home and was back at training with Liverpool FC today.

Neco’s large family hail from the Cefn Mawr area. His mother is Emma Jones, who runs a local dance academy and his dad is Lee Williams. Several of his cousins also played for Cefn Albion.

Albion secretary Nick Jones said that despite winning the Club World Cup, the first piece of silverware Nico wanted to get his hands on after arriving home was the national FAW Trophy won by Cefn earlier this year.

Nick said: “Tonight he’s come home to be with his friends and family – the Albion. Our ethos is keep it local and Neco Williams is it. An amazing down to earth lad who above all else wanted to spend time with all his friends and family at the Cefn Mawr Community Social Club.

“Neco has so many family members playing at the club – that’s why he wanted to come back home. Fair play, he’s just won the Club World Cup and he’s come home to the legion the next day.

“Neco popped in for around 30 minutes, said hello, showed his medal and then had photos. He was back training with Liverpool today.

“His home looks over Ty Mawr, where he trained as a boy. He comes home always level-headed and supporting his village. We couldn’t be more proud of him.”

This year, Cefn Albion’s Christmas get-together raised funds for Alder Hey children’s hospital and the British Heart Foundation.

Nick organised a pool and darts knockout competition at the event with all proceeds donated towards the chosen charities.