Ollie Watkins is nervous of playing Newcastle at the St. James’ Park in the upcoming Premier League season. This may come as a surprise to many fans. Especially, since Watkins’ exceptional run of form in the previous season.
Aston Villa were impressive under Unai Emery this campaign. They would finish the season on 4th place with 68 points. Furthermore, they would make a return amongst the European elites after qualifying for the Champions League for the first time in 41 years!
Newcastle, on the other hand, would endure a disappointing campaign. They would finish outside the top 4 and crash out of the Champions League in the group stages! Additionally, Manchester United’s FA Cup win would knock them out of European contention altogether for the upcoming season.
Surprisingly, Newcastle were only one of the two teams to do a league double over Villa. Moreover, Eddie Howe will be in utter shock. Especially, considering how the Magpies thrashed Villa 5-1 in the opening fixture last season. Yet, they would still finish below them!
Additionally, Watkins’ incredible performances with Villa would propel his inclusion in England’s EURO 2024 squad. Meanwhile, Newcastle are keen to reinforce their roster and return to fight for top 4 spots in the upcoming campaign!
Watkins enjoying the time of his life!
The 28-year old striker has enjoyed an incredible season with the Villains owing to his top drawer performances. Watkins has been very clinical in front of goal for Unai Emery and Villa. Moreover, his stellar shifts were vital for Villa’s road to Champions League qualification.
Watkins would end the league campaign with 19 goals finishing 4th on the scoring chart! Furthermore, he would be the top provider in the league garnering 13 assists! The 28-year old enjoyed an overall incredible season making 57 appearances for Villa. Additionally, he would score 27 goals and provide 13 assists across all competitions. Watkins would cap off the seasons with an astounding 40 G/A!
The 28-year old would receive several accolades for his crucial contributions. Watkins would be named as the Aston Villa Player of the Season by both the supporters and his fellow players! Moreover, he would also win the Premier League Playmaker of the Season. Furthermore, the 28-year old would be part of the Premier League Fan Team of the Season.
Then English striker would be keen to sustain his good run of form and help Villa as they look ahead to the Champions League challenge!
Newcastle wanted Ollie Watkins!
When you play so incredibly as Watkins and that too in a the Europe’s best league, you will find yourself in the spotlight. Naturally, Watkins was courted by many clubs due to his impressive goalscoring exploits.
The Magpies also consider Watkins as an alternative to back up Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak. Surprisingly, Watkins has failed to perform at St. James’ Park! In fact, he is yet to find the back of the net at the venue.
โI have had a stinker there every year, I think. But you just look up at that one stand and it just keeps going and going.
I have heard they are making another one like that. I am like โno, donโt, please donโtโ.”
Villa will be eyeing to maintain their top 4 position in the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Newcastle will be keen to hunt them down and make a return to European football. It will be interesting to see how far can Ollie Watkins and Villa go against the European elites. Moreover, will Watkins be finally able to break his duck at the St. James’ Park against Newcastle?
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