Williams backing for Griffiths

Hibernian goalkeeper Ben Williams insists Leigh Griffiths causes no problems in and around the club.

Last Updated: 28/01/13 at 10:04   

Leigh Griffiths: Backed by Williams

Leigh Griffiths: Backed by Williams

Reports emerged on Saturday afternoon that Griffiths had been arrested following an incident in a supermarket and Hibs later confirmed the 22-year-old had been involved in a police matter.

But the on-loan Wolves striker started Sunday's 0-0 Scottish Premier League draw against Aberdeen and Williams came to his team-mate's defence after the game.

Williams said: "Sparky, in and around the football club, is fantastic.

"He's a hard worker and we don't have any problems with him at all, either in training or the games. His ability is there for all to see.

"There are little controversies that follow him, and whatever reasoning or background is between him and them. We're just happy to have him at the club for the ability he brings."

Williams, who saved Niall McGinn's penalty at Pittodrie, added: "I don't know much about what's gone on. I think he's been a little bit unfortunate and a bit naive at the situations he gets himself in.

"Everyone's spoken to him at length. James McPake speaks to him well, and the manager speaks to him at length.

"He's not a vindictive or nasty person. You see him day to day, and there's not a bad bone in his body, so I'm sure whatever keeps getting him into trouble can be addressed.

"He's got everything you need to be a top, top footballer, and he's showed that this season. We as a group know the talent he brings, and welcome him with open arms every day."

Lothian and Borders Police would not confirm or deny that Griffiths had been involved in the incident in Tesco in Corstorphine, Edinburgh.

A police spokesman said: "A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with an alleged shoplifting incident in the Tesco store at Meadow Place, Edinburgh, on Saturday January 26. He will appear in court at a later date."

A Hibernian spokesman said: "The club is aware of an alleged incident which took place on Saturday afternoon involving the player. This is now a police matter."

Earlier this month, Hibs said they would discipline the player following a tweet that was criticised by anti-racism campaigners.

Football365 Facebook Fan Page

The Football365 fan page is a great place to meet like minded people, have football related discussions and make new friends.

Related News

Sky Bet

    • Retrieving latest Sky Bet odds

Most Commented

Readers' Comments

T

he day Tonys hat goes missing for some bantz will be different story altogether..

TheBrestEver
Stoke probe 'banter gone wild'

I

m starting to think Roman may never actually be happy at the top level. If he wants all conquering fancy football I wonder if he'd be better off buying a lower division side then paying outlandish salaries to attract high caliber players too good for the division.

john matrix
The Most Unsatisfying European Victory...

R

afa has to be favourite for the Everton job now, surely :) He'll realise his ambition to live and work on Merseyside again, get the best out of whoever plays for them, maybe win some cups and be thoroughly loathed by the toffee fans. What's not to like? Go ead, Ken, gimajob!

captbusby
Benitez basks in final glory

Footer 365

Alan Pardew confident he will still be Newcastle manager next season

Alan Pardew is 'pretty confident' he will stay as Newcastle manager after ending the season with a defeat by Arsenal.

Michael Owen had mixed emotions after his final appearance for Stoke

Retiring Stoke striker Michael Owen admitted he had mixed emotions after his final appearance for the club.

Premier League: Paul Lambert says 'something is happening' at Aston Villa

Paul Lambert refused to answer questions about the future of Darren Bent following Aston Villa's 2-2 draw at Wigan.

Mail Box

James Collins Is Only 29. Tough Paper Round

He is one of a number of solid shouts for players that look old before their time. We also have the final words on lovely D-Beck and a rejection of end of season playoffs...

Without Posh, Becks Could Have Been Scholes

That's one opinion, but others give their thanks to the man. We also have ideas for a relegation playoff, happy memories of the season and a defence of Liverpool's campaign...

© 2013 British Sky Broadcasting Ltd. All Rights Reserved