Ollie Watkins went into the international break thinking he’d have to watch England’s games from his sofa. But he ended it having breathed new life into his hopes of securing a spot in Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad. The Aston Villa striker was originally omitted from the squad for the friendlies against Switzerland and the Ivory Coast before being drafted into the side at late notice. He took his chance with both hands, scoring the opener in the 3-0 win over the Ivory Coast, with Villa teammate Tyrone Mings heading a late third. Watkins had no qualms with being left out originally, admitting his Villa form didn’t warrant an international call-up.
Ollie Watkins said: “My club form, I’ve been little inconsistent so I wasn’t expecting to be in the squad. That happens, but when I got the call, I’m always happy to come away with England. When I thought I was going to get the opportunity, I knew I had to take it with both hands. I’ve done all I can tonight.”
On his goal, a tap-in from a Raheem Sterling cross,
Ollie Watkins said: “I can’t believe it really. Raz [Sterling] has done unbelievable and it was on a plate for me. I couldn’t miss.”
Having come off the bench late on against the Swiss on Saturday, Watkins was handed a start against the Ivory Coast.
Ollie Watkins added: “You look forward to it, you don’t know if it’s going to be the first or the second game, you’ve just got to prepare as you do at your club. I just wanted to enjoy every moment, not put pressure on myself. My family and friends are here to watch so what a moment for them and myself.”
