Derrick Williams says it was always an intention of his to play in MLS after securing a move to LA Galaxy.

It was thought the 28-year-old would make the move last summer, amid interest from both Los Angeles and DC United, while closer to home, Swansea City also looking at the propect of prising him away from Ewood Park.

No move materialised however, with Williams going onto play 11 times this season before it was cut short because of injury.

As MLS interest reared its head again ahead of the 2021 season, which starts on April 17, Rovers agreed to release Williams from the final few months of his contract.

Williams’ deal at Ewood Park was set to expire in the summer, and with the 28-year-old currently injured, the club agreed to cancel the remaining months of his contract to facilitate the move.

Galaxy meanwhile acquired the ‘discovery rights’ to Williams after both themselves and DC United showed interest. As a result, LA will have to pay DC $125,000 in ‘general allocation money’ across the next two years having won the race for his signature.

Williams’ father is American, and a US passport holder will mean he won’t have to be registered as an international player.

The Stateside switch brings to an end Williams’ four-and-a-half year spell with Rovers, in which he made 152 appearances, winning the club’s player of the year prize in his debut season following his switch from Bristol City.

On the move, Williams said: “When I think of American football I think of LA Galaxy as being the best, or one of the best, teams and my family are from American and I’ve always wanted to come and play here.

“I’m really excited, as soon as I heard they were interested I wanted to make it happen.

“I know Robbie Keane, he spoke very highly of the place and I’m looking forward to representing Ireland and hopefully I can do as well as he did.

“Off the pitch I’m relaxed but on the pitch that changes and I turn it on and I’m completely different.

“I like defending, I get the most joy from keeping clean sheets and keeping a striker out of the game so that’s something I pride myself on.

“I’m looking forward to getting going now.”

Posting on Instagram after the move was confirmed, Williams wrote: “I want to thank everyone at Blackburn Rovers. The people at the club, the fans and all the lads I’ve played with. Been a great 4 1/2 years with memories I will never forget. Wish everyone all the very best and thanks for your support.”