Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has revealed that his omission from the England squad earlier this year was a "blessing in disguise," crediting the setback with sparking a remarkable run of form that culminated in his club's Europa League victory. The forward had been a regular fixture in Gareth Southgate's squads but was left out of the group for the March international fixtures, a decision that Watkins now believes provided the motivation he needed.
Following the international break, Watkins embarked on a scoring spree that saw him become one of the Premier League's most potent attackers. His goals were pivotal as Aston Villa navigated a challenging schedule, securing a top-four finish in the Premier League and ultimately lifting the Europa League trophy. The striker's ability to find the back of the net consistently under pressure proved crucial for Unai Emery's side.
Watkins' impressive run included several vital contributions in the latter stages of the Europa League campaign, where he consistently delivered performances that helped propel Villa towards continental success. His prolific output not only solidified his position as a key player for Villa but also reignited discussions about his place in the national team setup ahead of major tournaments.
The striker's sentiment highlights the psychological impact that international selection can have on players. While initial disappointment is common, Watkins' ability to channel that into improved club performances demonstrates a strong mental fortitude. His subsequent form has undoubtedly put him back in contention for future England call-ups, especially given his proven ability to perform on the European stage.
This period of sustained excellence for Watkins has been a major factor in Aston Villa's most successful season in decades. The club's achievement of winning the Europa League, coupled with their strong domestic showing, owes much to the individual brilliance and relentless effort of players like Watkins, whose response to perceived setbacks has been nothing short of exemplary.