Wales under-23 international winger Graham Williams was one of a succession of talented young players charged with the task of reviving Everton fortunes in the mid-1950s, but who ultimately found the challenge beyond him.

Signed from Bradford City in spring 1956, he immediately found himself struck down with serious injury that left him absent from first team action for almost a year. His return late in the in 1956/57 season brought goals and glimpses of his potential.

‘Though capable of juggling tricks, he opted more often to knock the ball past his full-back and tear after it before aiming for his centre-forward's head or attempting a long-distance strike himself, finding the net from outside the box on several occasions,’ wrote the football historian, Ivan Ponting.

Nevertheless his habit of over elaboration often frustrated the crowd and his fellow teammates too. Some grumbled subsequently that his self-confidence belied his actual ability. Above all though, injuries undermined his progress.

Although given a chance by Johnny Carey following his arrival as manager in 1958, Williams never had the confidence of the new boss and was sold to Swansea Town in 1959. Here he flourished and represented his country in the early-1960s, enjoying successful spells elsewhere in the lower leagues.