Simon Jordan has weighed in on whether Ollie Watkins or Ivan Toney should go to the European Championships this summer.
Over the past week, the discourse has centred around who Gareth Southgate will choose as Harry Kane’s understudy in Germany, and England’s fixtures against Belgium and Brazil somewhat felt like auditions for the pair.
After Watkins’ performance against Brazil and Toney’s impressive display on Tuesday, it does feel like the Brentford man has the upper hand.
Outspoken talkSPORT pundit Simon Jordan has spoken out on the duo and revealed who he would take to the European Championships in June.
Simon Jordan says who should go to the European Championships – Ollie Watkins or Ivan Toney
Discussing England’s squad selection on Wednesday morning, Jordan said: “In the question of Ollie Watkins. I am an Ollie Watkins fan. I liked him at Brentford, and he’s done really well at Villa.
“But I think Toney is a better player for what you want. I would go Toney all day.”
What has been said about Ollie Watkins’ England performance?
The Aston Villa star was initially scrutinised for his first-half miss against Brazil. At first glance, it looked like an opportunity squandered; however, as highlighted by Darren Bent after the match, it was a brilliant piece of last-ditch defending.
Elsewhere, Joe Cole has claimed the 28-year-old adds something different to England’s front line, with the former Brentford man being able to operate out wide.
Toney’s excellent performance against Belgium has probably increased criticism of Watkins, but questions about the Aston Villa star couldn’t be further from the truth.
His Premier League form clearly shows he’s among the best forward’s in the league and arguably the most incisive when it comes to running in behind.
The narrative created centres around Toney being a better fit for England; as a consequence, Watkins’ ability is questioned, which is entirely unfair.
