Ollie Watkins is on fire. The Aston Villa striker has rediscovered his scoring touch, bagging 12 Premier League goals this season, with nine of those coming since his omission from the England squad in March. This remarkable turnaround has not gone unnoticed, with Watkins now considered the most in-form English striker, even surpassing Harry Kane. Watkins' current form is a stark contrast to his struggles earlier in the season, where he was left out of the England squad and in a rough patch. But his exclusion from the national team has ignited a fire within him, and he's been relentless in front of goal, scoring 11 goals across all competitions. This has not only propelled Villa to the brink of the Champions League but has also made a strong case for his inclusion in the England World Cup squad.
What makes Watkins' resurgence even more impressive is his ability to take advantage of Liverpool's high line, as evidenced by his two goals in a 4-2 thrashing of the Reds. His performance against Liverpool showcased his relentless desire to get into goal-scoring positions, leaving the opposition faltering. Watkins' current form and impact on Villa's success have not gone unnoticed, with Villa captain John McGinn praising his efforts and even joking about his Scottish heritage. McGinn's comments highlight the positive impact Watkins has had on the team and his role in Villa's recent success.
The former Villa midfielder, Lee Hendrie, also weighed in on Watkins' chances of making the World Cup squad, stating that he has to be on the plane. Hendrie's perspective emphasizes the significant turning point Watkins has experienced since his omission from the England squad. His 19 goals in all competitions put him ahead of other English strikers like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Danny Welbeck, further solidifying his case for a spot in the national team.
As Villa prepares for the Europa League final in Istanbul, Watkins' form and influence on the team's success cannot be overstated. His ability to take advantage of defensive weaknesses and his relentless pursuit of goals have made him a key player for Villa. With the team on a high after securing their place in the Champions League, Watkins' contribution to Villa's campaign has been invaluable. The prospect of winning a major trophy in 30 years adds an extra layer of excitement to Villa's journey, and Watkins' role in this potential achievement is undeniable.
In conclusion, Ollie Watkins' resurgence is a testament to his resilience and determination. His ability to turn a personal setback into a motivational force has not only improved his own form but has also elevated Villa's performance. As he continues to shine, Watkins' inclusion in the England World Cup squad becomes increasingly inevitable, and his impact on Villa's success will be remembered for years to come.
