Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cary Williams has branded the New England Patriots "cheaters" ahead of their scheduled practice session in two weeks.

Williams referenced the 'Spygate' scandal when the Patriots were docked their 2008 first-round Draft pick and head coach Bill Belichick was fined $500,000 (£297,00) for illegally videotaping the New York Jets' defensive signals in their 2007 season opener.

The 29-year-old believes that the scandal may have had some effect on their three Super Bowls at the start of the decade and their failure to win a Vince Lombardi trophy since.

"They are cheaters. I give them all the credit in the world, but one fact remains: They haven't won a Super Bowl since they got caught," Williams told Philly.com.

The Eagles and Patriots are due to practise together ahead of their pre-season friendly in two weeks' time.