Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins started for England last night during the Three Lions’ 1-0 defeat to Brazil at Wembley, with pundit Joe Cole explaining how the Villa ace can give Gareth Southgate something different.
It was a frustrating night for England, who despite having an array of talent on the pitch, were unable to defeat a Brazil side in transition.
With the European Championships fast approaching, fans will want to see an improvement from Gareth Southgate’s side, who seemed to struggle to play exciting football.
Putting the 1-0 defeat at Wembley aside, it was a positive night for Ollie Watkins, who played 90 minutes in place of the injured Harry Kane.
It was a difficult game for the Aston Villa talisman to impose himself on, however, the 28-year-old snuffed his chance to score, firing the ball over the bar from close range in the first half.
Having netted 16 Premier League goals this season, Watkins’ head won’t drop after England’s struggles against Brazil although, he will want to redeem himself ahead of the Euros.
Joe Cole shares his opinion on Ollie Watkins in the England squad
Speaking on Channel 4 ahead of kick-off at Wembley last night, pundit Joe Cole shared his thoughts on Watkins, suggesting that the Villa star can offer Southgate something different going forward.
Speaking on England’s strike options, Cole said:
“That will come down to the balance, what goes into those three centre forwards, they’re three number nines.”
“You can’t see them playing off the right, maybe Watkins can. Foden and Bellingham can play anywhere.”
“Number nines are so crucial. I think he will probably go with two of the three, but you can’t rule out Gareth having three number nines.”
Watkins has showcased throughout the season that he can be much more than just a reliable goalscorer for Villa, and now England.
The forward has recorded 10 assists in the Premier League this campaign, telling of his improvement and ability to act as a playmaker, giving Southgate another option when it comes to lining up his attack.
Ollie Watkins must go to the European Championships this summer
There has been a lot of talk regarding who Southgate should take to the Euros, with Paul Merson believing that Ivan Toney should have a spot in the squad ahead of Watkins.
The Sky Sports pundit’s opinion has been challenged due to the Villa ace’s form this season, with the roundedness of his game unleashed by Unai Emery giving him a stronger baseline of skills than Brentford’s main man.
Cole’s comments on Watkins only reinforce that the Englishman should be second in Southgate’s plans behind the illusive Harry Kane, with the 28-year-old showing his adaptability numerous times this term with the Villans.
Only time will tell how the England boss decides to lineup his squad in the summer, with the hope that Watkins will get the chance he deserves to make an impact on the international stage.
