Wales international Liam Williams has paid tribute to Saracens for developing him as a player after it was confirmed he will rejoin Scarlets at the end of the season.
The full-back made more than 100 appearances over six years for the Welsh region before leaving for the reigning European and Premiership champions in 2017.
But he is out of contract with the English club at the end of the season and despite interest from a number of other sides, Williams has opted for a return to Llanelli.
Williams played in every game for Wales during the 2019 Guinness Six Nations as Warren Gatland’s men completed the clean sweep to become Grand Slam champions.
He also played a key role in Wales’ run to the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup but is currently recovering from surgery to an ankle injury sustained in Japan.
Speaking about his decision to leave Saracens and return to Scarlets, Williams said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Saracens over the past three seasons.
“The environment has undoubtedly developed me as a player and a person. I am grateful for the support I’ve had from the players, management and supporters during this time.â€
The 28-year-old scored ten tries in his first season at Allianz Park in all competitions and helped the Men in Black regain the Premiership title.
His performances for Wales during this year’s Grand Slam triumph saw him shortlisted for the 2019 Guinness Six Nations Player of the Championship.
And while he ultimately missed out on the award to teammate Alun Wyn Jones, Williams’ man-of-the-match display against England was one of the best of the Championship.
Williams was calmness personified under the high ball against a usually potent England attack, regularly averting danger while also presenting a danger in attack.
He made 77 metres from 13 carries – the most of any back on the pitch – during the fierce encounter in Cardiff as he helped Wales to a crucial 21-13 success over England.
The Wales back-three sensation, who has made 31 Saracens appearances to date, went on to play a significant part in the club’s 2018/19 double-winning season.
He scored two hat-tricks during the campaign as well as tries in the Premiership semi-final and final as Saracens won both English top flight and European honours.
Williams’ decision to return to Scarlets will be a huge boost for new Wales head coach Wayne Pivac, who previously worked with the full-back during his last spell at the region.
Once Williams is back with Scarlets he will be available for every Wales match and training session, which would not have been the case had he stayed in England.
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Source: 6 Nations