6ft 5-inch centre-back Rhys Williams has joined Aberdeen on a season long loan from Liverpool.

An England Under 21 International, Rhys has made 14 starts for the Liverpool first team, with a further five appearances off the bench and has experience of playing in both the English Premier League and UEFA Champions League.

The 22-year-old has had previous loan spells with Blackpool and Swansea and arrives at Pittodrie to link up with his former team-mate, Leighton Clarkson, who he played alongside in the youth ranks at Liverpool.

A powerful, hungry defender, Rhys is the type of young talent Dons boss Barry Robson wants to see at Pittodrie.

“Coming from Liverpool, Rhys joins us with a great pedigree,” said Barry.

“He’s athletic, tall and we think we can improve him and give him the platform to continue his development. I’ve no doubt he’ll become a real asset for the team.

“We’ve developed a good understanding with Liverpool, and I think they trust us with their players.

“The squad is starting to take shape now ahead of what will be a busy season. That said, we have still got a lot of work to do, and I expect the next few weeks will be busy with more new arrivals.”

Rhys is looking forward to a new challenge at Pittodrie, and to be reunited with his old team-mate.

He said: “I’m really pleased to be here. When I knew there was an opportunity to come to Aberdeen on loan I spoke to Leighton and he couldn’t speak highly enough about his experience.

“I actually met some of the boys during the summer so there will be a few familiar faces in the dressing room which I’m sure will help me settle quickly.

“There’s a lot to look forward to this season, particularly with European football, and I can’t wait to get started and show everyone what I am capable of.”