Jonny Williams has revealed it was his desire to work with Simon Grayson and Glynn Snodin that encouraged him to drive from Cardiff to Sunderland on Deadline Day.
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The 23-year-old was away on international duty with Wales, preparing for Saturday’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Austria, when he was given permission to speak to the Black Cats.
With the backing of boss Chris Coleman, Williams drove the mammoth 16-hour round trip from Cardiff in his car to get the deal over the line before the 11pm deadline.
And speaking to safc.com, Williams, who joins the Black Cats on loan from Premier League club Crystal Palace, admitted he is excited to learn off Grayson and his assistant Snods.
“I am delighted because it is always a manic day on transfer deadline day,” he said.
“Sunderland is a massive club and a massive opportunity for myself to come and achieve some special.
“We had training this morning and we have a big game coming up this weekend so it is always important to train ahead of a big game like that.
“The gaffer let me leave a little bit early to come and get this one done. It is always nice to have him on board and supporting me in this.
“I left in the car at half one and got here at half eight so I’m not looking forward to the journey back.
“It is a really exciting move for myself, to come here and work with the manager and the assistant.
“I have heard a lot of good things about them and I am really excited because I think they will get the best out of me.
“Hopefully they will play me in positions where I can hurt the opposition and getting a run of games for myself is the most important thing so I can put in good performances for this club.
“We should be fighting for promotion, that is the main aim, and that’s what I want to do.”
