Ollie Watkins, the Aston Villa striker, is making a strong case for himself as England's most in-form striker heading into the World Cup. His recent exploits, including two goals in a 4-2 thrashing of Liverpool, have propelled him to the top of the English striker rankings, even surpassing Harry Kane's form. This remarkable turnaround has sparked discussions about his potential inclusion in the England squad, with former Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie stating that Watkins 'got to be on the plane'.
Watkins' journey to this point has been a testament to his resilience and determination. After a slow start to the season, he picked up a few niggles during international duty and was left out of the England squad for the March international break. However, this setback ignited a fire within him, motivating him to prove his worth and regain his place in the starting lineup. His 12 Premier League goals this season, nine of which have come since his omission from the England squad, showcase his exceptional form and goal-scoring prowess.
What makes Watkins' situation particularly intriguing is his contrasting style to Harry Kane. While Kane is known for his clinical finishing and physical presence, Watkins brings a different dynamic to the team. His ability to take advantage of Liverpool's high line and find space behind their defense highlights his technical skills and tactical awareness. This unique playing style has earned him the admiration of his teammates, with Villa captain John McGinn expressing his desire for Watkins to be Scottish, implying the striker's impact on the team.
The upcoming Europa League final in Istanbul presents Watkins with a golden opportunity to further solidify his place in the England squad. His relentless pursuit of goals and consistent performance across all competitions have not gone unnoticed. With 19 goals in all competitions, he leads the way among English strikers, leaving competitors like Ivan Toney and Danny Welbeck in his wake. The fact that Watkins has been in such prolific form since his omission from the England squad further emphasizes his value to the national team.
As Villa prepares for the Europa League final, the team's success in the Champions League and the Premier League has been a testament to their hard work and dedication. The victory over Liverpool secured their place in the Champions League, and the prospect of winning a major trophy in 30 years is a thrilling prospect for the club and its fans. Watkins' role in this success cannot be overstated, as his goal-scoring prowess and on-field leadership have been instrumental in Villa's remarkable run.
In conclusion, Ollie Watkins' resurgence and exceptional form make him a strong contender for a spot in the England World Cup squad. His unique playing style, goal-scoring record, and impact on Aston Villa's success have all contributed to his rising status as one of England's most promising strikers. As the tournament approaches, Watkins' name will undoubtedly be a topic of discussion among football enthusiasts and pundits alike, further cementing his place in the spotlight.
