AMERICAN FOOTBALL: A CHESTER Romans player is showcasing his skills with a top Spanish team.

Defensive tackle Barry John Williams has signed for Barcelona Bufals (Buffaloes) and hopes the move will enhance his chances of breaking into the Great Britain squad.

Williams, nicknamed 'BJ', linked up with the Buffaloes while working in Spain this winter.

He said: 'I wasn't sure that I would be returning to Chester in time for the season and took the opportunity to e-mail the Barcelona coaching staff. After that I was invited to attend a trial and it went from there.'

The 20-year-old, who won the Romans' defensive player-of-the-year award last season, has not looked back since being picked for the Buffaloes' opening game of the season.

He said: 'I played the whole game which was very tiring. The 'imports' have to go both ways - attack and defend - and the standard was a step up from what I am used to.'

Williams, who is from Mold, is planning a return for Chester when the Spanish season is over, but for now he is fully focused on making a name for himself in Barcelona.

He said: 'I realise that the league is better in terms of stamina and physical fitness and I am attending the gym regularly to improve on those aspects.

'I have six months left to get myself in perfect shape and I am determined to make a good fist of it.'

Williams is hoping to make the Great Britain team this season - a feat which his Chester coach, Richard Colin, believes is in his grasp.

Colin said: 'BJ will probably make the Great Britain team after his experiences in Barcelona. There is no doubt he will improve and give the rest of the team some valuable tips.'

Chester Romans' links with their Barcelona counterparts are very important to the club and Colin has every intention of making best use of them.

He said: 'They are invaluable. Hopefully BJ can persuade some of them to come and play in Chester for our season and we will look to send some boys over to the Catalan country for their campaign if they are interested.

'It is not just a playing level where the club will benefit but also in the levels of promotion.'

Williams, who is playing as a semi-pro in Barcelona, admits it has not been a massive change in terms of the facilities and playing arena.

He said: 'There are as many people watching here as were attending games in Chester and the standard of the facilities is very comparable to that of the Romans.

'I did not expect a huge change as they do not pay the players to play but instead pay for their accommodation and travel expenses.'

Chester Romans will miss Williams for the first three games of the new season as they look to make the Division Two play-offs after relegation from League 1A last term.

The side is looking for an immediate return and need new players to bolster a roster of only 30 people.

For further information on Chester Romans contact Richard Colin on 01244 399760 or 07833997032.