Aston Villa: Ollie Watkins must continue 100% displays as Paul Merson rubbishes England hopes
Ollie Watkins must continue to impress with his performances for Aston Villa until the summer, as Paul Merson insisted he would not take him to the European Championships with England.
Merson revealed he would select Brentford forward Ivan Toney rather than Watkins ahead of the Euros due to his prowess from the penalty spot, which can often be crucial in tournaments.
Given Harry Kane’s nailed-on starting place in the team, Gareth Southgate will likely be forced to choose between Watkins and Toney for the backup role.
Speaking on Sky Sports as shared by their official X account [20 March], Merson shared: “I would pick Toney just for his penalties instead of Watkins in England’s Euro 2024 squad.”
Will Ollie Watkins go to Euro 2024 with England?
Given his performances for Aston Villa this season in which he has racked up 16 goals and 10 assists in 29 Premier League games, Watkins is making a real case for why Southgate should select him to go to the Euros.
Alongside his fantastic goal record, Watkins’ importance to Unai Emery is on display in every game, as it was against West Ham. Despite the result, the striker had two attempts on goal and pulled off one key pass as he looked to find the winner for his side. [Sofascore]
Alongside that, his hard work off the ball was displayed by his 100 per cent ground duel success rate and ability to draw fouls which provided his team with some respite as they struggled to take control of the game.
The 1-1 draw with West Ham was a showcase of his ability while his side is struggling, but Watkins also thrives in a dominant performance. The 5-0 victory against Sheffield United saw arguably his best performance of the season with two assists and a goal.
Alongside those, a 100 per cent aerial duel success rate, seven ground duels attempted, two key passes, two shots on target and even a clearance off the line show what a variation of skills he can bring to the team.
The ability to showcase his ability both in games where his side dominates and when they struggle could be crucial for England both in the early and latter stages of the European Championships.
With friendlies against Brazil and Belgium coming up during the international break, Watkins must ensure he impresses Southgate if handed the opportunity to prove himself as he has been doing all season at Villa Park.
He can rub it in Merson’s face.
In other Aston Villa news, Watkins is being monitored by Champions League clubs.
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