‘Massive’ Ollie Watkins contract extension ‘really important’ for Aston Villa
We’re delighted to welcome Aston Villa podcaster Ty Bracey as our exclusive Aston Villa columnist each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the club…
Ollie Watkins’ new Aston Villa contract is “really important” for the club as the striker is an “integral” part of the squad, according to Ty Bracey.
The Athletic’s David Ornstein first shared on X (6 October) that the England forward was set to sign a new five-year contract to keep him at Villa Park until 2028, with Villa later confirming Watkins had signed a “long-term contract”.
Watkins has blossomed alongside his club, registering 40 goals and 13 assists in the Premier League in the last three seasons, including a recent hattrick against Brighton. The 27-year-old’s start to the season has been recognised by Gareth Southgate too with an England call-up.
With other top sides sniffing around the former Brentford man this summer, Bracey has welcomed the contract news due to the impact Watkins continues to have on the side, though he urged the striker to find more consistency for Villa amid some early season stumbles.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bracey said: “I think it’s really important. He’s an integral part of the system. We just need to get a bit of consistency in his form and we know from last season that he’s capable of those long runs and scoring, we just need to see more of it.
“Obviously he scored a hattrick and an assist against Brighton, which was massive. It’s class, so I’m glad we’ve got it done. It probably took a little longer than expected.
“Sometimes Ollie can be the scapegoat but I think his work rate on and off the ball is exceptional. He is someone we need to keep hold of.”
In other Aston Villa news, a Sky Sports journalist has raved about a “Massive” Villa Women star who’s needed for European football.