Ollie Watkins has rapidly emerged as one of the Premier League’s brightest attacking talents. Known for his sharp instincts, tireless work ethic, and impressive goal-scoring ability, Watkins has become a central figure at Aston Villa. But what is it about this dynamic forward that has caught the attention of football fans and pundits alike? This article explores Watkins’ journey, his playing style, and the growing recognition of his talents both in club football and on the international stage.
Early Life and Beginnings
Ollie Watkins was born on December 30, 1995, in the small town of Torquay, Devon. Growing up in a football-loving family, he was introduced to the game at a young age. Watkins’ potential was evident early on, with his speed and technical ability setting him apart from his peers. He joined the youth system at local club Torquay United, where he would spend his formative years honing his craft.
Move to Exeter City
Watkins’ professional journey began when he signed with Exeter City, a club known for developing young talent. His early years at Exeter were crucial in his development as a player. After impressing in the academy, Watkins made his first-team debut for the club in 2014. His performances in League Two showcased his pace, versatility, and finishing skills.
In the 2016-17 season, Watkins’ rise to prominence began as he helped Exeter reach the League Two Playoff final. His strong performances earned him a reputation as one of the league’s most promising forwards, and it wasn’t long before larger clubs began to take notice.
Breakthrough at Brentford
In 2017, Watkins made the move to Championship side Brentford for a reported £1.8 million, a record transfer fee for the club at the time. His time at Brentford marked a turning point in his career, as he started to attract attention from Premier League clubs. Under the guidance of manager Thomas Frank, Watkins transformed into a deadly forward, capable of both scoring and assisting goals.
During the 2019-2020 season, Watkins enjoyed a breakout year, scoring 26 goals and providing three assists in the Championship. His impressive performances helped Brentford secure a spot in the playoff final, and although they lost, Watkins’ form was undeniable. His ability to score in a variety of ways—whether with his feet, head, or through link-up play—made him one of the most sought-after players in the division.
Aston Villa Move
Following his standout season with Brentford, Watkins was bought by Premier League club Aston Villa in September 2020 for a reported £28 million. The move was a significant step in his career, and Watkins wasted no time in proving that he could make the jump to the top flight.
His debut season in the Premier League saw him make an immediate impact, scoring 14 goals and registering 5 assists in his first year with Villa. Watkins quickly became a fan favorite, admired not only for his goal-scoring ability but also for his work ethic and commitment to the team.
Playing Style and Strengths
Ollie Watkins is often described as a complete forward, possessing a wide range of attributes that make him a constant threat in front of goal. His speed is one of his most noticeable qualities; he can make darting runs behind opposition defenses and exploit space in wide areas. This pace, combined with his intelligent movement, allows him to find himself in dangerous positions regularly.
What sets Watkins apart from other forwards is his versatility. While he is most commonly deployed as a central striker, he is comfortable operating in wide areas as well. This fluidity gives his team tactical flexibility, as he can drift out wide or drop deeper into midfield when required. His ability to link up play and create space for teammates makes him a valuable asset in Villa’s attacking system.
Another of Watkins’ key strengths is his ability to finish with both feet. Whether it’s a delicate touch around the goalkeeper or a powerful strike from outside the box, he has shown time and again that he can score in various ways. Additionally, Watkins is strong in the air, using his leap and timing to score headers from crosses and set pieces.
International Recognition
Ollie Watkins’ impressive performances for Aston Villa did not go unnoticed by England manager Gareth Southgate. After a string of excellent displays in the Premier League, Watkins earned his first call-up to the England senior team in 2021. His debut for the national team came in a friendly match against San Marino, where he scored a goal and further solidified his place in Southgate’s plans.
Watkins’ ability to compete at the highest level has made him a regular feature in England’s squad. He was included in the roster for Euro 2020, although his involvement was limited due to the strength of the attacking options available to Southgate. Nonetheless, being included in such a prestigious tournament highlighted the progress Watkins had made in a short time.
Work Ethic and Leadership
One of the most talked-about aspects of Ollie Watkins’ character is his relentless work ethic. His tireless running, both on and off the ball, is often praised by coaches and teammates alike. Watkins’ energy and commitment to pressing the opposition, along with his willingness to contribute defensively, set a high standard for those around him.
Moreover, Watkins has shown leadership qualities, even though he is not officially the captain of Aston Villa. His attitude and determination on the pitch have earned him respect from his teammates. He has a strong influence in Villa’s dressing room and has been key to their performances over the past few seasons.
Impact on Aston Villa
Since joining Villa, Ollie Watkins has become one of the club’s most important players. His ability to lead the line and provide a focal point for the attack has been crucial for manager Dean Smith’s system. Watkins’ arrival marked a significant step forward for the club, as he has brought the kind of quality needed to push Villa further up the Premier League table.
Watkins’ partnership with fellow forward Jack Grealish, who was sold to Manchester City in 2021, was especially effective. The two players complemented each other well, with Grealish’s creativity providing Watkins with ample opportunities to score. Since Grealish’s departure, Watkins has continued to thrive, proving his capability to operate in a variety of attacking setups.
Ollie Watkins’ Influence on Villa’s Ambitions
As Aston Villa looks to challenge for European spots and improve on its Premier League standing, Ollie Watkins is expected to play a central role in the club’s ambitions. His ability to score goals and lead the line is indispensable, and with further development, he has the potential to become one of the Premier League’s top strikers.
Villa’s reliance on Watkins is evident, and the club will continue to build their offensive strategy around him. While there are always uncertainties in football, if Watkins continues on his current trajectory, he could be the driving force behind Villa’s long-term success.
What’s Next for Ollie Watkins?
Looking ahead, Ollie Watkins’ future in both club and international football is bright. His consistent form for Aston Villa has made him one of the most highly regarded strikers in the Premier League. While there will always be speculation about possible moves to bigger clubs, Watkins has shown loyalty to Villa and is focused on helping the team achieve greater heights.
In terms of international football, Watkins is likely to remain a fixture in the England squad for the foreseeable future. His versatility and skill set make him a valuable option for Gareth Southgate, and he will likely continue to be involved in major international tournaments, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup and beyond.
Final Thought
Ollie Watkins’ rise from the lower leagues to the Premier League is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and perseverance. His impact at Aston Villa has been immediate, and he is quickly establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most promising forwards. As he continues to develop and achieve success both at the club and international levels, Watkins is set to become a key figure in English football for many years to come. With his sharp finishing, versatility, and tireless work ethic, he is a player that both Aston Villa and England can rely on for continued success.
FAQs
Who is Ollie Watkins?
Ollie Watkins is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Aston Villa in the Premier League. He has been known for his pace, work rate, and ability to score goals, making him a key player for both his club and the national team.
What position does Ollie Watkins play?
Ollie Watkins primarily plays as a forward, although he can also operate as a winger. His versatility in the attacking third allows him to be deployed in various roles depending on the team’s needs.
When did Ollie Watkins join Aston Villa?
Ollie Watkins joined Aston Villa in September 2020 for a reported transfer fee of around £28 million, a club record at the time. His arrival followed a successful stint with Brentford, where he impressed with his goal-scoring ability in the Championship.
How many goals has Ollie Watkins scored for Aston Villa?
As of January 2025, Ollie Watkins has scored over 50 goals for Aston Villa, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s top forwards. His consistent performances have helped Villa maintain their competitiveness in the league.
Is Ollie Watkins part of the England national team?
Yes, Ollie Watkins has been called up to the England national team on multiple occasions. His form with Aston Villa has earned him recognition, and he has made appearances for England in international matches.
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