Watkins in Better Form Than Kane Ahead of World Cup

Ollie Watkins was in a rough patch two months ago, out of form, struggling for goals, and left out of Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the March international break, which jeopardized his chances of playing for the Three Lions at the summer's World Cup. However, with one month remaining before the tournament in North America, the striker rediscovered his stride, making it difficult for him to be left out of Tuchel's World Cup squad.

Watkins' latest performance, scoring two goals in a 4-2 victory over Liverpool, helped Aston Villa secure their place in next year's Champions League, making him one of the most in-form English strikers, even ahead of Harry Kane. "I wish he was Scottish!" said Villa captain John McGinn, noting that Watkins was disappointed in March but has used that experience as motivation. "What he's done for this club the past few seasons has been incredible. I think he may have just snuck his way onto that plane."

With 12 Premier League goals this season, Watkins' tally since being left out of the March international camp has risen to nine. Across all competitions, he has scored 11 goals during this period, slightly edging out Kane, who has netted 10. This improved form paralleled Villa's run to the Europa League final. Watkins admitted that his omission from the England squad fueled his desire to prove his worth: "I had a slow start to the season and being left out of the squad gave me that fire in my belly to come back and show people what I can do."

In the match against Liverpool, Watkins showcased his ability to exploit their defensive high line, continuously finding space behind the defense. Despite having one goal disallowed for offside, his relentless pursuit of scoring positions put Liverpool on the back foot. He aims to replicate this form against Freiburg in Istanbul on Wednesday, where Villa seeks its first major trophy in 30 years.

Since the last international break, Watkins has scored more Premier League goals than any other player with nine, while Manchester City's Erling Haaland follows with seven. Despite his in-form status, the competition for the striker position hinges mainly on backing up captain Kane. Ivan Toney, currently playing in the Saudi Pro League, has had a prolific season, but his stats are harder to compare. Conversely, Watkins’ 19 goals in all competitions place him ahead of both Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Danny Welbeck, who have struggled with their own form.

"He's got to be on the plane," stated former Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie, emphasizing Watkins' turnaround after being excluded from the squad. "He’s been relentless in front of goal, showing his capabilities, and he gives the team something different from Harry Kane."

Aston Villa’s season, which began with difficulties, ended on a promising note with Champions League qualification and a Europa League final to look forward to. Manager Unai Emery expressed pride in the team's achievements and focusing on the upcoming final, noting that claiming the Champions League spot was a significant accomplishment. As McGinn pointed out, players need to stay focused while enjoying the journey ahead.