Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins stole the headlines once more as the Villans defeated Fulham on Saturday afternoon, but it wasn’t just his goals that had Unai Emery smiling.
Aston Villa earned a much-needed three points against Fulham on Saturday afternoon, winning 2-1 away from home to reclaim a spot in the top four.
The victory was largely dedicated to Boubacar Kamara by both the manager and the squad, who showered the midfielder in support after it was revealed that he sustained a season-ending injury last week.
After recording consecutive home defeats in the FA Cup and the league, it was imperative that Villa recorded a win at Craven Cottage, which they did thanks to the performance of Ollie Watkins.
How Ollie Watkins performed for Aston Villa against Fulham
Against the Cottagers, the expertise of Watkins leading the line for the visitors determined which way the three points would go.
Scoring his 12th and 13th goal of the Premier League campaign, the Englishman showcased just how clinical he can be when his side need him, earning all the praise for the vital win on the road.
Recording two shots on target, the 28-year-old scored 100% of his shots on target in what was an impressive display of finishing, although his streak in front of goal wasn’t the only thing he was applauded for.
What Unai Emery said about Ollie Watkins after Fulham victory
Despite essentially winning the game for his side, Unai Emery took the time to applaud his striker for something other than his goalscoring contributions.
Speaking to the media after the victory, the manager lauded his forward’s playmaking strengths on show at Craven Cottage.
“Ollie Watkins was fantastic but the best action he did was in the first half when he recovered the ball and created a chance for Youri Tielemans.”
“When he is scoring it is very important for him. I am very happy with him. I think he has improved a lot”
Having recorded 10 assists already in the Premier League, Watkins is the joint-top creator alongside Kieran Trippier, highlighting how his game has blossomed to act as a playmaker as well as being a reliable finisher.
Against Sheffield United, the England international became the first player to reach the 10+ goals and 10+ assists milestone in Europe’s top five leagues.
To put into perspective just how much Watkins’ game has evolved in a creative light, prior to this season, the Englishman recorded 13 Premier League assists in 109 appearances.
So far, the 28-year-old has a tally of 10 assists after just 25 appearances, giving the manager a reason to celebrate the additional strengths that have come into the striker’s game this term.
