Mike Williamson Toons up for Wolves
New loan signing Mike Williamson is excited about his fresh start – and believes there are similarities between Wolves and parent club Newcastle.
The 31-year-old centre-half is today due to be thrown into the heat of a West Midlands derby against Birmingham City for his Wolves debut.
Initially signed up for a month, Williamson is hoping to make a big impression for Kenny Jackett's team, after not featuring in the league for Steve McClaren's Magpies this season.
And he believes that with confidence and momentum, the play-offs are a realistic target.
"When momentum and confidence come in football it's a fantastic thing and when you've got that you just keep looking up the table," Williamson said ahead of today's game.
"The league is very difficult, it's unforgiving and relentless. You just have to be consistent and be thereabouts.
"For me it's an opportunity to play football, that's all you want as a player. My chances have been limited at the minute.
"It's a fresh challenge and exciting times."
Williamson had endured a tough few months at struggling Newcastle, who he says will soon turn things around under McClaren once their many new signings get up to speed.
And in Wolves he believes he's joined a club not too dissimilar to the Magpies.
"Newcastle is a fantastic club," he said. "Some of my experiences have been brilliant, the promotion, we finished fifth in the Premier League, played in Europe and had some great derby victories, among some low points as well, tough times, but it's the size of the club and the expectation.
"It's not too dissimilar to Wolves in the size, the fanbase and the passion around the place, you can feel it.
"Steve McClaren said it's a great opportunity to go and play football at a massive club and it'll only benefit me personally, so go and enjoy it and prove yourself.
"I'm relishing this opportunity."
What does Williamson know of Wolves already? "Obviously you can see that Wolves are an attacking force.
"We've got a lot of offensive players, they've got great ability going forward so it's looking at trying to use the experience and shore up the back a little bit."
