Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has acknowledged that criticism surrounding his form this season is “hard not to notice” as expectations around him continue to rise.
The England forward has been one of Villa’s most consistent attacking players in recent years under Unai Emery. However, his output has dipped this campaign compared to the impressive numbers he produced in previous seasons.
Watkins admitted that the standards he set during Villa’s rise into the Champions League places have inevitably raised expectations among supporters and observers.
Ollie Watkins reflects on Aston Villa expectations
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Watkins explained that the success he enjoyed during Villa’s recent campaigns has changed how his performances are now viewed.
After scoring 16 Premier League goals in the 2022/23 season, the striker improved further the following year with 19 league goals as Aston Villa secured a top four finish and Champions League qualification.
Watkins followed that with another strong season, again reaching double figures and becoming Villa’s all time top Premier League scorer.
However, the forward’s numbers this season have been more modest, with eight goals in 39 appearances across all competitions.
“It’s difficult now, the expectation is a lot higher. The previous seasons I’ve scored a lot of goals.” — Ollie Watkins, via Sky Sports News
Watkins admitted that once a player sets a high benchmark, supporters naturally expect those levels to continue.
“The season where we got to the Champions League I scored 28 goals, so the expectation from there… people will judge you on that.” — Ollie Watkins
Villa striker admits criticism is difficult to ignore
The 30 year old also acknowledged that modern footballers inevitably hear criticism from supporters, especially when performances drop below previous standards.
“Where we are as a club now, the elevation has only gone up. There are more fans who voice their opinion, sometimes it’s hard not to notice them.”
Despite the scrutiny, Watkins insisted his focus remains on continuing to work hard and improving his performances.
He also highlighted the backing he continues to receive from manager Unai Emery as a key factor.
“I work hard every day, try to improve. Sometimes it might be your day, sometimes it won’t, but you’ve just got to keep plugging away.”
Competition increases after Tammy Abraham arrival
Villa strengthened their attacking options in January by signing Tammy Abraham in a deal worth around £18 million.
The striker arrived to provide additional competition in attack after Donyell Malen’s departure, but Watkins says he does not view the signing as a threat to his position.
“I don’t ever see it as Tammy’s come in and I’m threatened. It’s good for the team and it gets the best out of you.”
Watkins added that playing alongside other high quality attackers can help the entire team improve.
Key Insights
- Ollie Watkins has scored eight goals in 39 appearances this season.
- The striker previously scored 28 goals during Villa’s Champions League qualifying campaign.
- Watkins admits criticism from supporters is difficult to ignore.
- Tammy Abraham joined Aston Villa in January to strengthen attacking depth.
- Watkins says internal competition helps improve the team.
What’s Next
Aston Villa now enter the decisive phase of the season as they attempt to maintain their position among the Premier League’s top sides. Watkins will remain central to Emery’s attacking plans as the club looks to secure strong results in the remaining fixtures.
With additional competition from Abraham and other attacking options, Villa’s forward line will likely rotate depending on the tactical demands of upcoming matches.
Can Ollie Watkins rediscover his best form as Aston Villa push for another strong Premier League finish?
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