Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has issued a plea for the fans to be prepared to fully back the squad against Manchester United this afternoon at Villa Park.
Aston Villa host Manchester United in the Premier League this afternoon, as Unai Emery seeks revenge on Erik ten Hag’s XI after the late Boxing Day agony in the last meeting between the two clubs.
With Villa in 5th and United in 6th, but eight points behind, the race for the top four could heat up in today’s meeting, as the hosts aim to reclaim 4th spot from Spurs, who left it late to get three points on the board yesterday.
After Wednesday night’s abysmal performance against Chelsea seeing the Villans prematurely exit the FA Cup, it’s integral that Emery’s side bounce back in what could be a statement result against United to bolster their Champions League hopes.
It’s all eyes on Birmingham this afternoon, with talisman Ollie Watkins taking the time to address the supporters ahead of the critical clash on matchday 24 of the 2023/24 campaign for Villa.
What Ollie Watkins said about Aston Villa fans ahead of the Manchester United clash
Speaking to the media ahead of the fixture against Manchester United, Watkins called on the supporters inside Villa Park to get behind the team to ensure the result favours the Villans on a “need to win” occasion.
“This is a game we need to win on Sunday. We need the fans to be bouncing. When Villa Park is loud it is one of the best places to play football and we need that. If they are loud and are supporting us at all costs it really does go a long way.”
Having lost just one game in the Premier League at home this season, coming in last month’s defeat to Newcastle United, Emery’s side have made Villa Park into a fortress, a title that must be honoured this afternoon.
With the help of the crowd, Villa’s top four hopes could take another significant leap in the right direction, as well as restore their form at home after two consecutive defeats in the league and cup.
Ollie Watkins will be important for Aston Villa against Manchester United
Aside from gearing up the crowd, Watkins shed light on his targets at the club in the near future, including having his eye on the club’s Premier League scoring record, currently held by Gabby Agbonlahor.
Currently on 51 goals, the Englishman admitted he is targeting Agbonlahor’s record of 74 league goals.
“When I signed my new contract, that was one of my main goals – to break that, to win something with the club, to push on and try to achieve something.
“I feel like I’m improving as a player under this manager and with this team.”
Watkins could add to his tally this afternoon against Manchester United as the striker prepares to come up against a weakened United defence, as Lisandro Martinez misses out due to injury.
Whether the 28-year-old is on the scoresheet or not, his presence in the final third will be vital to breaking down the visitors, highlighted by his ability to act as a playmaker, recording 10 assists in the league so far.
