Nottingham Forest will keep Neco Williams as their first choice right-back despite the signing of Serge Aurier, according to Sky Sports pundit Kevin Campbell.

The Lowdown: Forest set transfer record

The 21-year-old joined the City Ground outfit from Premier League giants Liverpool back in July, and has quickly become an integral member of Steve Cooper’s starting XI.

The Reds later announced the capture of former Tottenham Hotspur star Aurier on a free transfer, taking the club’s arrivals total to 22, a new British record for incoming players during a single window.

The Latest: Campbell backs Williams

Asked by Football Insider whether Williams would maintain his starting place following Aurier’s signing, Campbell said:

“Yes.

“I think Neco has done quite well for Forest to be honest. I think what Forest need, just like a lot of clubs, is competition. Competition is the key. One thing we do know about the Premier League, injuries will come and catch you if you’re not prepared.

“I think Nottingham Forest have got two and a half teams with the amount of signings they’ve got. I think Neco Williams will be first choice. If his form drops or he’s injured then there’s a ready made replacement.”

The Verdict: Impressive start

Williams has started all six games in the top-flight this season and has made an instant impact on the Forest squad, so it would be completely the right decision for Cooper to keep him as his first-choice full-back.

The Welshman has averaged an outstanding 4.5 tackles and 1.8 interceptions, alongside 2.2 shots and 1.5 key passes per league game (WhoScored), highlighting his influence on the flank both defensively and offensively.

Williams also has the age profile that the Reds boss is looking to add to his team compared to the more experienced Aurier, though the Ivorian will provide sufficient cover for the season ahead.