Rotherham United: Ryan Williams ready to ‘give his best’ after Portsmouth switch

The Australian turned down a new contract at the Millers as he wanted to stay in the Championship, but he instead chose League One Pompey – the club he started his career in English football at.

That means he will have an early reunion as he will come up against Paul Warne's side next season on August 24 at Fratton Park.

He has signed a two-year contract at the club and is targeting a promotion push.

“This is where I started after first coming over to England, but the club I left is completely different to the one I’m joining now,” he said.

“They were on their way down, but the reason I’m here today is because of the ambition to go back up. I want to be a part of that.

“But it’s in a much better position now. They obviously just missed out on promotion last season and it’s exciting to try to help get the club back to where it was.

“This is a great place to live and an awesome club with history, while the fans are amazing – it’s perfect.

“I’ve still got my best years ahead of me and hopefully I can give them to Pompey. First and foremost, we’ve got to try to get back to the Championship.”

The Millers might feel a sense of betrayal from Williams in joining a club in the same division after they rescued his career in 2017.

The winger had endured an injury-hit spell at Barnsley, but Warne took a chance on him and offered him regular football.

Williams repaid that gamble and was a key player in the League One promotion in his first season at the AESSEAL New York Stadium and produced form good enough last season to earn a maiden international call-up from the Socceroos.

Former Millers boss Kenny Jackett, now in charge of Portsmouth, feels like they have got a man in his prime.

“Ryan is out of contract and we’re pleased that he’s chosen Pompey, who were his first club many years ago,” Jackett said.

“Ryan’s just made his debut for Australia, but has been in England for many years now and established himself.

“He speaks very fondly of this club and has continued to follow them. He’s delighted to come back and is doing so in his prime.”