Ollie Watkins, who was recalled to the Aston Villa starting lineup, showcased his skills in a stunning 4-1 victory against Newcastle United in the Premier League. He opened the scoring just 33 seconds into the match with a deflected shot, marking his 74th Premier League goal for the club—a joint record. Watkins, who had found himself on the bench in five of Villa’s previous six games, including both legs of the Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain, utilized this opportunity to express his frustration and determination to reclaim his starting position.
During the first half, Watkins was very active, nearly doubling Villa’s lead as he twice hit the woodwork. In the second half, he assisted his teammate Ian Maatsen, contributing to a decisive win for Aston Villa. Following the match, he candidly stated, “So I think the manager’s got a little bit of a headache because I’m banging on his door saying why am I not playing,” emphasizing his desire to remain a key figure on the team.
This performance not only highlights Watkins’ talent but also reflects Aston Villa’s overall strong trajectory in the league. The team’s recent victories, including impressive wins over Chelsea and Club Brugge, showcase their resilience and ambition for European qualification. Under Unai Emery’s management, there is a palpable sense of hope as Villa strives for continued success both in domestic and European competitions.
Fans can take comfort in this win, feeling optimistic about the team’s potential as they approach the critical remaining fixtures of the season. The chemistry between Watkins and his teammates, particularly with new signings, looks promising and could play a vital role in their pursuit of silverware.
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