City complete Williams signing

The six-foot former Swansea City, Everton and Stoke City centre-back will boost Lee Johnson’s defensive options until mid-January with the option to extend his contract.

Williams, 35, brings a wealth of Premier League experience having made 241 top-flight appearances on top of his time in the Championship, as he links up with his new teammates in the first month of the current campaign.

Head Coach Lee Johnson said: “I’d like to offer Ashley a very warm welcome. His experience will be invaluable, both on and off the pitch, and we’re all looking forward to getting to work with him.”

Williams’ career began at Stockport County before he helped Swansea reach the second tier via the 2007/08 League One play-offs. An instant hit in South Wales, Williams made the move permanent for a then club-record fee.

After eight seasons with the Swans which included top-flight football after their 2010/11 promotion, Williams linked up with Everton for three seasons, before signing with the Potters on loan for the 2018/19 campaign.

Williams has been twice named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year (2009/10, 2010/11) and won the League Cup with Swansea in 2012/13 following his Championship play-offs win to reach the Premier League in 2010/11.