FORMER Swindon Town captain Darren Ward has hailed Town’s assistant manager Luke Williams as one of the standout figures from his time in professional football.

The words of departed defender Ward carry some serious clout because of the storied career he has enjoyed.

The 36-year-old started out as a professional in 1996, has racked up more than £1.5 million in transfer fees for his services, has played in the Premier League and an FA Cup final.

Ward has featured under such names as Graham Taylor, Mick McCarthy, Kenny Jackett, Gianluca Vialli, Brendan Rodgers and Paolo Di Canio, but rates Town’s current assistant as one of the best.

Williams has been at the club since the start of the 2013/14 season and is hailed by many as the chief architect behind Swindon’s progressive style of play.

Even though Ward has spent the majority of Williams’ time at the club out of the first team picture, he believes the former Bristol Rovers apprentice is a kindred spirit in footballing terms.

"Luke Williams is an incredible guy and an incredible coach," Ward told the Advertiser.

"I know a lot of the lads speak highly of him. This guy is an exceptional figure in my football career and that’s over 20 years now.

"He is a standout figure and deserves every bit of credit that he gets."

Ward explained that Williams plays a large part in designing the brand of football Swindon play on the training ground.

“Luke is very influential in training. His philosophy is very much similar to how I see football and how I would want to play,” the veteran defender added.

“Luke he has an incredible amount of influence because of his incredible philosophy and his methods.

"You’ve seen the difference in the team this season with that."

Perhaps, given his time away from the first team, Ward’s view of boss Mark Cooper is a little less flattering.

"I don’t have a lot really to say about Mark Cooper,” Ward said.

"Mark Cooper is there. He’s got the current managerial spot at Swindon Town Football Club under certain circumstances.

"He has found himself there and good luck to him. That’s all I have to say on Mark Cooper and that’s all which is needed."