‘Massive’ - Ollie Watkins reacts to Aston Villa goal and win after England snub
Ollie Watkins hailed Aston Villa’s crucial victory over West Ham as one of their best performances of the season.
Watkins netted Villa’s decisive goal - his first in the league since late January - just days after missing out on an England call-up.
The win gives fourth-placed Villa a five-point advantage over Liverpool heading into the international break, and Watkins believes the display ranks among their standout performances of the campaign.
Asked about his goal, the 30-year-old said: “It was sweet because I had quite a few opportunities in the game.
“The one you probably least expect. Following in from a rebound, the ball just fell to me nicely and I have done well to lift it over the keeper.
“I am really happy with that. Off the back of a bit of poor form. That is one of the best performances we have had this season.”
The victory was made even more significant as fellow Champions League hopefuls Liverpool and Chelsea both lost, while Manchester United were held to a draw - making it a timely boost for Villa.
Watkins added: “It’s massive for us with it being the last game going into the international break and all the teams around us playing before and them dropping points.
“We knew the job in hand and we have taken it and maximised our opportunity to try and push on and get into the Champions League spots.”
Watkins’ World Cup ambitions suffered a setback when he was left out of the England squad for friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.
However, he responded in ideal fashion, helping Villa secure a much-needed win after a run of three league defeats.
On missing out, Watkins said: “Everyone wants to play for their country but I expected that because my form has not been that great.
“I know what I can do and when I put on an England shirt I feel like I have always performed well.”
