SWINDON Town head coach Ben Garner admitted the deal to bring Wales international Jonny Williams to the County Ground was a lengthy process but well worth it in the end.

Town signed the 27-year-old on a free transfer late on Friday following his release from Cardiff City in the summer.

Many fans considered the deal for the former Sunderland, Ipswich Town, and Charlton Athletic man to be something of a coup, and Garner explained a long history with the player - stemming from their time at Crystal Palace together - helped bring the deal about.

One of Town’s issues in the club's 2-1 defeat to Carlisle United on Saturday was a lack of creativity up front.

However, Garner is hoping to partially solve that problem following the acquisition of Welshman.

The highly-rated winger was not registered in time for Saturday’s game, but Garner said Williams may play a part on Tuesday night when Tranmere Rovers arrive.

Reacting to the signing in Saturday’s post-match press conference, Garner said: “It was a long process, if I’m honest.

“We worked really hard – both Ben [Chorley] and I – and full credit to Jonny because he could have gone abroad, he could have gone to a higher league and earned a lot more money than what he’s going to earn here with us.

“But it came to a footballing decision – I’ve known him since he was 12 years old, and he’s a wonderful player. Just as important, he’s a great person.

“We worked really hard on that deal, and we were absolutely delighted when we got it over the line.

“He’s a wonderful talent, he’s still only 27, so he’s got a long way to go in his career.

“I think he’s at the point where he wants to play in a style and a position that will suit him, and he wants to enjoy his football.

“We’re confident we can get him doing that, and I think he’ll be a fan’s favourite here.”