Former Manchester United defender Brandon Williams has returned to the pitch for the first time in 19 months, appearing as a trialist for Hull City in a pre-season friendly win over Sunderland.
The 24-year-old fullback came on as a second-half substitute and helped Hull secure a 2-1 victory, marking his first match since December 2023 when he was on loan at Ipswich Town.
Williams’ return to football comes after a lengthy absence following a dangerous driving incident in August 2023. Earlier this year, he was sentenced to 14 months in prison, suspended for two years, after being convicted of driving at nearly 100 mph (161 km/h) in an Audi A3. The vehicle collided with a Ford Fiesta before veering into the central reservation on the A34 in Cheshire. Reports described his behaviour at the time as “erratic.”
Once regarded as one of United’s most promising academy graduates, Williams had been earning an annual salary of £3.4 million at the peak of his career. His sudden fall from grace was a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in professional football.
Now looking for a fresh start, Williams is training with Hull City in hopes of earning a permanent deal. His brief but composed cameo against Sunderland suggests there’s still plenty of football left in him.
Hull City manager Liam Rosenior spoke positively about Williams’ involvement, emphasising the importance of second chances. “Brandon’s got talent, that’s never been in doubt,” Rosenior said. “What matters now is attitude, hunger, and the willingness to prove himself again. Everyone makes mistakes; it’s what you do afterwards that defines you.”
While no official decision has been made regarding a contract, Williams’ trial period with Hull could open the door to a much-needed career revival.
For now, it’s a small but significant step forward, a player once destined for Premier League stardom, working to rebuild both his reputation and his game.
