Dean Smith Aston Villa
Aston Villa’s £33 million signings Ollie Watkins scored the only goal in their pre-season friendly against Manchester United and manager Dean Smith reckons that he doesn’t want the pressure to be off the striker. He feels that the striker’s attitude is his biggest asset and wants him to score as many goals as possible.
Dean Smith said “I don’t take the pressure off him, the only thing that will take the pressure off him is good performances from Ollie – he knows that. The same happened last season with Wesley as well, goal-scorers, centre forwards are there to stick the ball in the back of the net. He has made a good fist of that over the last few seasons. I have worked with him before, his attitude, his application to his work and the way he has improved is a testament to the person he is. I have no doubts about him at this level – that’s for sure. What stood out most about Watkins was not so much his goal, nor even the couple of other chances he might have converted – but his movement. His ability to slip away from defenders meant he was always in a good position in the box. With supply from Grealish on one flank – and a more regular delivery from the opposite flank it looks as though Watkins is going to get plenty of chances. Of course, the real test will come against Premier League opposition – but this was a hugely promising start.
