Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins stakes claim for England World Cup spot
Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins has responded to his March international omission by scoring 11 goals across all competitions to firmly stake his claim for a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup squad.
Two months ago, the lively attacker found himself struggling for form and was consequently dropped by the national team manager.
However, a recent resurgence has seen the former Brentford man outscore his international captain Harry Kane in the period since that disappointing setback.
His latest impressive display featured a crucial brace during a 4-2 victory over Liverpool which guaranteed Champions League football for his club next season.
A timely return to goalscoring form
The prolific marksman has registered 12 Premier League goals this campaign, with a remarkable nine arriving after his exclusion from the Three Lions camp.
Across all competitions, that tally rises to 11 strikes, edging past the 10 goals managed by Kane over the exact same timeframe.
This impressive domestic output extends seamlessly into European competition, helping guide the West Midlands outfit towards the Europa League final.
“I had a slow start to the season, picking up a few niggles on international duty and then being left out of the England squad,” Watkins explained.
“I think it gave me that fire in my belly to come back and prove to people what I can do.”
Teammates back international credentials
Club captain John McGinn has been effusive in his praise for the revitalised frontman following his match-winning performance against the Reds.
The Scottish midfielder noted that while the initial international snub was difficult to process, it has ultimately provoked the perfect reaction.
“We’re so fortunate to have him, what he’s done for this club the past few seasons has been incredible,” stated McGinn.
“I think he may have just snuck his way onto that plane.”
European glory awaits in Istanbul
The immediate reward for this sensational purple patch could be a historic continental triumph against Freiburg on Wednesday evening.
Victory in Istanbul would secure a first major trophy in 30 years for the ambitious Premier League side.
While the long-term ambition remains securing the primary backup role to Kane at the upcoming tournament in North America, adding a European medal to his collection will only strengthen an already compelling case.
