Meet the Villain with new goals in mind

OLLIE WATKINS of Aston Villa has been one of the stars of the Premier League this season. His success can be attributed in large part to the influence of his experienced manager, Unai Emery, writes Tope Maja.

Emery, previously managed Valencia, Sevilla, Arsenal, Villarreal and Paris Saint-Germain has given Watkins a new lease of life.

Watkins started his professional career at Exeter City, where he scored 26 goals in 78 appearances before moving to Brentford in 2017. At Brentford, he continued to impress, scoring 49 goals in 149 appearances and helping the team reach the Championship play-off final.

His impressive performances caught the eye of Aston Villa, who signed him for a club-record fee of £28 million in September 2020.

One of Emery’s key contributions to the team has been his ability to transform Watkins, 25, into a prolific goal scorer. Under his guidance, Watkins has already equalled his 14-goal tally which he previously set in the 2020/2021 season, with five games still to play.

Before Emery’s appointment, Watkins had struggled to find the back of the net under Steven Gerrard. He had only managed to score one goal in his 21 appearances for the club, a far cry from the form that he has displayed this season.

Emery’s impact on Watkins is evident not only in his increased goal-scoring prowess but also in his all-round game. The striker has become a more complete player under Emery, with his ability to hold up the ball, make intelligent runs, and link up with his teammates all improving significantly.

Under Emery’s guidance, Villa have been able to secure some impressive victories over top Premier League sides such as Manchester United, Tottenham, Chelsea, and Brighton.

Emery has implemented a tactical approach that has allowed Villa to play to their strengths, with a focus on counter-attacking football.  Watkins has been a key contributor to Villa’s success this season, scoring crucial goals in some of their biggest games.

His pace and work rate have been instrumental in Emery’s counter-attacking style of play. Emery deserves credit for getting his imprint on the side and players like Watkins, as he has instilled a winning mentality and tactical flexibility that has allowed Villa to compete with the best teams in the league.

As a result of his impressive performances this season, Watkins has been tipped for a call-up to the England national team. While he may face stiff competition from the likes of Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford, there is no denying that his form warrants consideration. Watkins’ versatility is a valuable asset. He can play as a lone striker or as part of a front two, and has also been deployed on the wings on occasion.

This adaptability is a key attribute for international football, where tactical changes are often required. If selected for the national team, Watkins could thrive in the company of better players. His ability to create and finish chances would be a valuable asset to any team, and he has already shown that he can perform at a high level.

As the Premier League season draws to a close, Villa find themselves in the hunt for Europe. Watkins’ attitude and work ethic have endeared him to the club’s support. He is a player who gives everything for the team, and his commitment to the cause has not gone unnoticed.

His determination and desire to succeed could be just what Villa need to push them over the line in their quest for European football. They currently sit in eighth place, with all still to play for.

With Watkins leading the line, there is every reason to believe that they can mount a late surge for a European place.