Welsh media are completely right about Neco Williams' display vs Portugal

Neco Williams was a shining light for Wales as they narrowly beaten 1-0 by Portugal in their Nations League opener on Thursday.

Joao Felix's early goal ultimately decided the fixture, with Jorge Jesus' side missing several chances at Estadio Jose Alvalade.

It was a 58th Wales cap for Williams, who has risen to become one of his nation's most important players both going forward and when defending.

Much of that progress has come in the four years since the 25-year-old joined Nottingham Forest from Liverpool, with his form not going unnoticed.

Tottenham were among the clubs to register their interest in the defender this summer, but talk of any potential move was ruled out and he has since signed a new contract at the City Ground.

Williams has committed his future to Nottingham Forest until at least 2030, and displays like Thursday's work to reiterate just how important that agreement was.

Wales media hail Neco Williams display, stats prove why

Thursday's clash was ultimately fairly comfortable for Portugal, and they could have been well out of sight had it not been for the efforts of Williams.

The right-back made a number of key defensive contributions, including one intervention to deny Cristiano Ronaldo.

In total, he made a block, four clearances, an interception, five recoveries and three tackles - the joint-most of anyone on the pitch.

Williams also won four duels, was fouled once and completed four of his six attempted long balls, in what was a fine display for the Nottingham Forest star.

WalesOnline awarded him the right-back with a seven out of 10 for his display, and wrote that he was "good at both ends of the pitch".

"Produced a superb defensive intervention to get in the way of Cristiano Ronaldo's shot during a Portugal break, while also getting forward and helping Wales threaten," they added.

Nottingham Forest to face Williams battle despite new deal

Despite tying Williams down to a new deal, Nottingham Forest will expect to face interest in him next summer.

If the right-back continues to thrive, the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester United will undoubtedly return to the table.

Decision-makers at the City Ground are well aware of that, and surely had that in mind when handing the defender a new contract.

Not only does his new deal keep Williams at the club for now, it increases his value if Nottingham Forest do face a situation in which they must sell.