Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has produced a stunning and sustained run of form at the perfect moment, forcing England manager Thomas Tuchel to sit up and take serious notice ahead of the upcoming international fixtures. The 28-year-old has been in devastating form, combining his trademark relentless work rate with clinical, ice-cold finishing in front of goal.
Watkins’ ability to stretch opposition defences with intelligent, tireless movement and create space for his teammates has added a new and valuable dimension to Villa’s attack. His hold-up play, once considered a relative weakness, has improved markedly, and his link-up with the midfield has become one of the most effective partnerships in the Premier League.
Tuchel, who had previously appeared to favour other options in the central striking role, has publicly acknowledged that Watkins’ recent displays have made him impossible to ignore. ‘He is playing at an incredibly high level — the kind of form that demands selection. When a striker is in this kind of mood, you would be foolish not to find a way to get him into your team,’ the England manager said.
With England’s striker position more fiercely competitive than it has been in a generation — with the likes of Harry Kane, Ivan Toney, and several emerging young talents all competing for places — Watkins has timed his electrifying run of form absolutely perfectly. His all-round game has evolved to the point where he is no longer just a goalscorer but a complete forward who can lead the line at the highest level of international football.
