Importance Score: 15 / 100 🟠
Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins Expresses Frustration After Champions League Omission, Responds with Newcastle Domination
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has voiced his discontent after being benched by manager Unai Emery for a crucial Champions League quarter-final match against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Despite his frustration, Watkins responded emphatically on the pitch, contributing significantly to Aston Villa’s commanding victory over Newcastle in the Premier League.
Watkins’ Champions League Disappointment
Watkins, Aston Villa’s leading goal scorer, began the Champions League quarter-final second leg against PSG on the bench, only entering the game for the final moments. Villa were ultimately defeated by the French side on aggregate, despite securing a 3-2 win in the second leg at home. Upon his return to the starting lineup against Newcastle, Watkins made an immediate impact, scoring within the opening minute and delivering aMan of the Match performance in Villa’s decisive 4-1 triumph. His performance served as a clear message regarding his selection frustrations.
Watkins’ Candid Reaction to Emery’s Decision
“I played a mere 20 minutes against PSG across both legs, and I won’t deny I was angry about not starting,” Watkins admitted. “I communicated my feelings to (Emery). Ultimately, he is the manager, and I respect his decisions. However, I am not a player who is content with a place on the bench.”
He further elaborated on his disappointment: “Missing out on such a significant stage was a novel experience for me. Every player desires to participate, especially in the Champions League. Several of us were disheartened not to be in the starting eleven, but as I said, the manager makes the final call.”
“The team performed admirably [against PSG], but my desire was to be on the field for a more extended period. I aspire to start in pivotal matches, especially considering my contribution to Aston Villa’s current standing. Instead of dwelling on the negativity, I chose to channel that anger into motivation.”
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Ollie Watkins conveyed to Unai Emery his ‘fuming’ sentiment after not starting in either Champions League quarter-final clash against PSG.
Emery’s team suffered a 5-4 aggregate defeat, with Watkins featuring for less than 30 minutes throughout the two legs.
The forward responded assertively on Saturday, scoring and assisting in Aston Villa’s 4-1 victory against Newcastle.
Aston Villa’s Transfer Strategy and Champions League Pursuit
Looking ahead, Aston Villa are reportedly aiming to bolster their attacking options in the summer transfer window, with a focus on acquiring a youthful forward akin to Jhon Duran. Duran was previously sold to Al-Nassr for a reported £66.5 million in the winter transfer period. Villa possess a £40 million purchase option for Marcus Rashford from Manchester United and may explore extending his loan spell into the next season.
Aston Villa’s immediate focus is their Premier League campaign and securing a Champions League qualification spot. A crucial fixture against Manchester City awaits, further emphasizing the importance of each remaining game. The win against Newcastle placed them level on points with fifth-placed Nottingham Forest in the race for Champions League qualification.
Watkins emphasized the team’s ambition, stating, “We are performing exceptionally well currently. Our objective is to win all remaining fixtures and secure that Champions League position.”
Emery’s Perspective on Watkins’ Response
Emery acknowledged Watkins’ reaction positively, stating, “To be angry is excellent. His performance today is precisely what I desire. He is a commendable individual, consistently respectful, and his dedication is unwavering. As a club, we have elevated our standards.”
“My conversations with every player revolve around mutual understanding of their perspectives, and our discussion with Ollie was very productive. His response on the pitch today makes me very pleased.”
Newcastle’s Perspective
Newcastle’s assistant manager Jason Tindall, filling in for manager Eddie Howe as he recovers from pneumonia, commented, “The paramount concern for Eddie is rest and recuperation; the more he prioritizes that, the sooner he will rejoin the team.”
Reflecting on Newcastle’s season, Tindall added, “We must maintain perspective on our current position. We are presently third in the Premier League with five matches remaining. At the season’s outset, this would have been considered a successful position by everyone.”