"Very, very lonely" - Shane Williams breaks silence on post-retirement struggles

His countries record try-scorer, Williams finished playing professionally seven years ago, but does still play the odd match for his local team.

“I knew there was going to be a big void in my life once rugby had gone,” he told the Mirror. "Not playing was something I absolutely dreaded.

“It’s the camaraderie of the day to day stuff you miss the most. I struggled without it, I really did.

“People always think 'you played rugby or football, you earned quite a bit of money, you did quite well, you must be fine’,” he said. “But everyone has their problems. Money doesn't solve everything, I can assure you.

“We all cry, whether we're a 6'11 second row or a 5'6 winger that used to play for Wales. We all get upset, depressed, suffer from anxiety in some shape or form.

“You go from spending almost every day - breakfast, lunch, sometimes dinner - with these boys around you,” he added.

“Then one day they’re not there any more. It can be very, very lonely.

“I’ve spoken to a lot of lads that have really struggled and at times been in dark places. Some are still struggling five to 10 years after retiring. As a sport we need to look out for each other more.”

Williams said: “My first choice– I had some great battles with Bryan in my time. He’s won Rugby World Cup’s, player of the year, try of the year…everything there is to win.”

Williams said: “I could realistically choose any New Zealand winger from the last 10 years, but I’d go with Joe. Scored against Wales a number of times, so much pace, and a very good finisher,”

Williams said: “Best full back, played with him at Ospreys, Wales, Lions. An underrated player. I still can’t believe he wasn’t mentioned as the best player during the 2009 Lions tour,”