Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins is making waves in the football world, and his recent performances are garnering attention not just in the Premier League but across Europe. The 28-year-old striker showcased his prowess once again with a stunning brace against Luton Town, solidifying his status as one of the best strikers in the game.
Watkins’ Goal-Scoring Streak
Unai Emery’s key player has been on fire recently, scoring five goals in the last three matches. His remarkable performance against Luton Town propelled him to a total of 16 Premier League goals this season, placing him in the upper echelons of the league’s goal-scoring charts. Additionally, Watkins has proven to be more than just a goal scorer, contributing 10 assists to his name.
Premier League Playmaker Award Contention
Watkins finds himself in contention for the prestigious Premier League Playmaker award, sharing the top spot with Kieran Trippier and Pascal Gross. His ability to both score and create goals adds a dynamic element to his play, making him a standout performer in the league.
Thierry Henry’s Acclaim
The Aston Villa star’s performances haven’t gone unnoticed, with football legend Thierry Henry drawing parallels between Watkins and Chelsea icon Didier Drogba. Henry praised Watkins for his “Drogba-like” goal against Luton Town, highlighting the striker’s aerial prowess and ability to punish opponents in the box.
European Striker Rankings
Ollie Watkins’ impact extends beyond the Premier League, positioning him favorably in European striker rankings. A statistic revealed by David Jones underscores Watkins’ significance, showing that only Harry Kane boasts more goal involvements than the Villa striker among elite strikers in the top five European leagues.
Versatility and Defensive Contribution
Watkins’ impressive statistics extend to defensive aspects of the game as well. He ranks in the top 69 percentile for defensive clearances, playing a vital role in Aston Villa’s solid defensive record this season. His well-rounded contributions set him apart, making him a key asset for Unai Emery’s squad.
Top Percentile Rankings
Comparisons with other world-class strikers reveal Watkins’ excellence. He ranks in the top 86 percentile for non-penalty goals and the top 94 percentile for assists, showcasing his all-around offensive capabilities. With 82 percentile for touches inside the opposition penalty area, Watkins proves to be a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Ollie Watkins’ stellar performances make him a standout figure not only in the Premier League but on the European stage. As Aston Villa aims for a top-four finish, Watkins continues to be a linchpin in Unai Emery’s squad, earning acclaim from legends like Thierry Henry and establishing himself among the elite strikers in the game. The football world will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Watkins as he strives for more success in the remainder of the season.
