'We don’t want safe players who don’t take risks': Pep Lijnders hits back at Neco Williams critics

“First of all, Neco is a doer. And doers make mistakes. We don’t want safe players who don’t take risks,” Pep Lijnders told the pre-Arsenal press conference.

“For all young players, it’s a weakness if you get caught up in praise and criticism. He dealt with it well.

“Our players and players spoke with him. You can’t get caught up with praise or criticism as a young player.”

Neco Williams had been heavily criticised on Twitter after his performance in the EFL Cup victory over Lincoln City last week. The attack prompted the 19-year-old to black out his social media.