Ollie Watkins has admitted this season has been the biggest challenge of his life, but the Aston Villa striker is determined to finish strongly and force his way into England ahead of the next World Cup.
The 30-year-old responded to a difficult campaign by scoring in Villa’s 3-1 Europa League first-leg win over Bologna on Thursday, providing a reminder of his quality at a crucial stage of the season.
As Thomas Tuchel prepares to name his squad for the upcoming warm-up games, Watkins is focused on making a late impression.
“We have a huge tournament in the summer,” he said. “I’m doing everything I can to get there, score more goals before the end of the season and hopefully be in the World Cup squad.”
Ollie Watkins’ form has come under scrutiny this season
Watkins’ double in Italy took him to 12 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions, a return that falls short of the levels he has set in recent seasons.
After playing a key role for England at Euro 2024, including his goal in the semi-final, hopes have risen. Watkins admitted that the changes made the campaign more testing.
“The most difficult moment for me has probably been, in all my careers, I would say this season,” he said.
“I did very well to get to where I am. He set the expectations when I think I have reached a new level, scoring goals and playing in Europe as well.
“After the Euros, eyes are on you, and this year I haven’t reached the level I wanted to be at. Learning to deal with that is difficult.”
Europa League promotion gives Aston Villa a boost
Villa’s victory over Bologna has given Unai Emery’s side a solid platform as they pursue European silverware.
Watkins’ performance was central to that success, with his passing and finishing providing an edge that was missing at times during the campaign.
The result keeps Villa firmly on course for a possible semi-final appearance, while also giving Watkins a chance to rebuild his confidence in the closing weeks of the season.
England World Cup hope is still alive
Although fresh out of England’s recent camp, Watkins has not given up on international ambitions.
Competition for places in Tuchel’s squad remains fierce, and the striker knows his margin for error is slim. However, he has turned to experienced voices for guidance during a difficult spell.
One of those people is Michael Owen, who was approached by Watkins for advice.
“I sent him a message and we just talked,” he said. “He used to say that when I play when I’m angry and I’m a nuisance, that’s when I’m at my best.”
With Villa competing in several competitions and places in England still up for grabs, the final weeks of the campaign could yet reshape the narrative of what has, by his own admission, been a difficult year.
The only way he will be able to force his way into Tuchel’s plans is to keep scoring goals, which is easier said than done.
