SEAN Williams has become an Altrincham player for the second time and expressed his delight by saying: "It feels great to be wanted by the league champions."

As the mainstay of Warrington Town’s midfield, the industrious Williams spent most of last season trying to deny Alty the Evo-Stik Premier title, before doffing his cap to the "sheer quality" that saw Phil Parkinson’s team over the line with two games to spare.

Now he is devoting all his energies to building on Alty’s success under Parkinson and making a positive impact on the National League North after readily accepting an invitation to become the Robins manager’s second signing of the summer, following last week’s acquisition of forward Anthony Dwyer.

Reflecting on a mutual respect between himself and Parkinson that developed during an eventful title campaign, Williams said: "Warrington and Altrincham played each other four times last season, so we bumped into each other quite frequently and would always have a word.

"It was a bit of a snarling match to begin with, because we were enemies, both going for the same prize.

"But it was always clear he liked how I played and rated me, and it goes without saying I admired the football Alty played and the way they won the league.

"We thought we were in with a shout when we narrowed the gap to a point, but quality and strength in depth shone through and took Alty clear again.

"Honestly, you look at that squad and it is sheer quality.

"For large parts of last season, they just looked like they were not going to be beaten.

"So it will be really good to work with those boys and the manager instead of against them.

"It’s nice getting a phone call asking you to play for the league champions and I didn’t take much persuading.

"That’s the sort of call I like, and I’m really excited about the season ahead.

"I have always liked Alty and I enjoyed playing for them first time round, so I can’t wait to get started again."