Rugby: Williams tipped to build fitness with English club

Ali Williams in action against England in 2008. Photo / Getty Images

Blues lock Ali Williams is set to make a return to competitive rugby in Britain before Christmas.

The 61-test veteran has not played since he suffered his second snapped Achilles tendon in the first minutes of a pre-season match for the Blues in the New Year. Williams, 29, last played for the All Blacks in a 32-6 win over England at Twickenham two years ago.

The club he will play for has not been announced yet but it is likely to be a short-term deal, possibly with a lower-division club, in England.

Williams was with the New Zealand team for the first week of their British tour, having his Achilles assessed by the All Black medical panel who have encouraged him to do more running on varied terrain to build ankle strength.

Williams also journeyed to adidas' base in Germany where they designed some custom-made footwear to give greater support in training and games.

"He needed to make sure the footwear he was going to wear playing the game and his training gear was 100 per cent. It was pretty critical," said All Blacks coach Graham Henry.

"We're delighted with where he's at but he needs that confidence to push to the next level.

"He's pleased with where he's at, but as you can appreciate with a guy who's done his Achilles twice, there will be a bit of apprehension there."

Apprehension they hope will be eased by some lower-velocity rugby before Super 15 preparations start.