Swindon Town was represented at the FIFA World Cup this year for only the fourth time in their history as Jonny Williams was selected to play for the Welsh national team.

Sadly for the midfielder and Wales, results did not go their way and the Dragons exited the competition this week at the group stage.

Defeats against Iran and rivals England meant that Williams’ journey in Qatar ended before the knockout stage and will travel back to England to link up with the Robins once more.

Town manager Scott Lindsey noted what an achievement Williams’ inclusion was for the League Two club when asked in Thursday’s press conference.

“The fact that he has gone out there as part of that squad is brilliant and I think that it is fantastic for the football club,” said Lindsey.

“For me personally, he is the only player that I have coached who has gone to a World Cup, so it is a proud moment for me in many ways.”

Wiltshire Times: Swindon Town manager Scott Lindsey was hoping for his star player to get some minutes at the World Cup.Swindon Town manager Scott Lindsey was hoping for his star player to get some minutes at the World Cup. (Image: Rob Noyes)

The 50-year-old coach was disappointed not to see Williams gets some minutes on the pitch but was pleased to have one of his star players back ahead of a gruelling fixture list.

“I wanted to see Jonny get on and I think it would have been great for the football club if he would have got some minutes on the pitch,” said Lindsey.

“I did speak to him yesterday and he said he’s had a great time and enjoyed the experience of it. He’ll come back unscathed and will be ready to go again.”

Williams will return this weekend but will play no part in Town’s League Two game with Crawley Town on Saturday.

“We will integrate him into training next week and hopefully he will be raring to go the weekend after,” said the manager.

Wiltshire Times: Wales were knocked out of the World Cup at the group stage due to defeats to Iran and England.Wales were knocked out of the World Cup at the group stage due to defeats to Iran and England. (Image: PA)

The midfielder’s Swindon teammate, Tom Clayton, was also disappointed to see his friend get no minutes for Wales at the tournament but was glad to have him back in the squad, nonetheless.

“I think we were all itching for Jonny to get on the other night and the group chat was going off hoping for it to happen,” said the former Liverpool defender.

“It wasn’t to be, but it was a great experience for him, and I hope he enjoyed it.”

Swindon will look to return to winning ways this Saturday as they face Crawley in League Two, with a kick-off time of 3pm at the Broadfield Stadium.