Ollie Watkins returned to form in style on Saturday night as the England international netted a brace in a 3-2 comeback victory against Everton.
It was an incredible night at Villa Park. Unai Emery’s side were seemingly down and out just before the 30-minute mark after going 2-0 down.
However, Watkins managed to net a goal on either side of half-time before Jhon Duran popped up with a sensational late winner.
While Duran has been widely praised for his performance against Everton, Watkins’ contribution cannot go under the radar.
The striker was a doubt to start the match after picking up an injury during the international break, but managed to still pull off a stellar performance.
Now, Watkins has sent an encouraging message to fans in the aftermath of the victory.
Ollie Watkins states that ‘he is not back to his best yet’ despite brace
Watkins was Villa’s main man during the 2023/24 campaign as he netted 27 goals in all competitions to return the club to the Champions League.
However, in this campaign, he has had a stuttering start and struggled to get going in the first few games.
Chris Waddle believed Watkins was ‘unfit’ against Leicester, and soon after, the England international picked up an injury.
Yet, despite these challenges, Watkins ensured Villa came away with all three points on Saturday evening.
After the game, the striker spoke to Sky Sports, telling Villa fans that he is ‘not back to his best yet’.
“There’s such a quick turnaround from the Euros,” he said. “A lot of the boys are getting back up to fitness.
“I still don’t feel 100%. I’m disappointed a didn’t get the hat-trick – I should be coming off with the match ball – but I’ll settle for the two.
“I’m not at 100 per cent. I took some time off during the international break. I don’t want to miss too many matches, though.
“We were obviously unlucky against Arsenal. We’re delighted we got [the win] today. Now we focus on the Champions League, which everyone is looking forward to.”
Ollie Watkins could be a monster this season for Aston Villa
If that was Watkins not at 100%, Villa fans should be very excited. At times, the striker was unplayable against the Toffees as he dragged the hosts back to level terms.
It is no doubt a big season for both Emery and Watkins as the level of expectation from the pundits and the fans has increased.
Yet, neither seemed to be affected by this, and this showed against Everton. As the season goes on, if Watkins continues to improve he could be a monster.
The Champions League now awaits the striker on Tuesday which will no doubt be a big occasion for both him and the club.
