By Mathew Davies

Copyright walesonline

Wales’ most-capped rugby league player Rhys Williams claims his career was ended following a voicemail left on his phone. Monday brought news that the 35-year-old from north Wales would be hanging up his boots , following a career that saw him score 24 tries in 38 outings for his country. Williams has previously gained notoriety online for his likeness to Liverpool footballer Mohammed Salah, with more than 55million people watching a clip of him scoring a superb length-of-the-field try for Salford Red Devils in 2020 . Wales have upcoming fixtures against Ireland at the end of October and start of November and despite his season with Widnes Vikings being ended by sciatica, he would have been available for the international clashes. But it appears new head coach Paul Berry wants to go in a different direction and blood youth. It is a decision which has left Williams “disappointed”, with the manner of delivery particularly galling for him. “I had a voicemail on Saturday evening, saying that I had been dropped from the squad due to he wanted to promote youth,” he told the BBC . “He said to give a call back if I wanted to discuss that, so I called back immediately. It rang through and then I left a message that got two blue ticks. “He rang me back the next day and I said that I felt I shouldn’t have been informed that in that way after representing my country for 17 years.” Williams has enjoyed a successful career, representing a number of clubs in England and Central Queensland Capras in Australia. His intention was to retire following the Wales games, despite holding talks with Widnes over a contract extension. Williams, who will now focus on his career as a PE teacher in Congleton, wanted to bow out on his own terms but that will not be happening. “I wanted to retire this year off the back of playing for Wales,” he added. “Like any sports player, if there was a young lad coming through who I felt was better than me then I’d tip my cap and wish them well. “That happened to me when I was at Salford but I feel that my form was good this year. “I feel that I have dedicated my career to Wales so to be left a voicemail like that blew my mind. “I get that it was going to end at some point and I could take it on the chin, but for it to happen like that has been incredibly disappointing.” In his retirement announcement online, Williams said it had been “one hell of a journey”. “After a lot of thought, the time has come to hang up the boots,” he said. “Rugby has given me more than I could ever have imagined: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the privilege of representing my country alongside some incredible blokes and coaches. “To every coach and player I’ve had the honour of working with, thank you for shaping me on and off the field. To my family and friends, thank you for your endless support on the rollercoaster that is rugby league , and to my wife, I couldn’t have done this without you. “You’re support and sacrifice means the world to me, and I can’t wait to spend more time with you and Reina. It’s been one hell of a journey, and I’m truly grateful for every step of it.”