Aston Villa’s star striker Ollie Watkins has turned his Champions League frustration into a Premier League statement demanding more minutes after a match-winning performance against Newcastle.
When Unai Emery benched Watkins for both legs of Villa’s Champions League quarter-final against PSG, the 28-year-old was seething. But on Saturday, he channeled that anger into a career-defining display: scoring inside 33 seconds, assisting another, and hitting the woodwork twice in a 4-1 demolition of Newcastle.
Now, with Villa chasing a top-four finish and an FA Cup semi-final looming, Watkins’ explosive form has reignited the debate: Should Emery’s loyalty to Marcus Rashford cost Villa their most lethal homegrown weapon?
Watkins’ Bench Fury Ignites Record-Equalling Performance
Watkins didn’t hide his frustration after being relegated to a substitute role in Villa’s biggest games this season.
- “I was fuming,” he admitted post-match. “I let Emery know I’m not a player who’s happy sitting on the bench.”
- His response? A goal and assist inside 20 minutes, equalling Gabriel Agbonlahor’s Premier League club record (74 goals).
- Per Opta, Watkins is now the first Villa player to net 15+ goals in three straight Premier League seasons.
“He played with anger and it was dynamite,” said Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp. “That’s how you answer a manager’s snub.”
The Rashford Dilemma: Will Watkins Force Emery’s Hand?
Emery’s preference for Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford has raised eyebrows and transfer rumors.
- Rashford started 4 of Villa’s last 6 games, despite inconsistent form.
- Watkins, meanwhile, has 8 goal contributions in his last 10 Premier League appearances.
- Arsenal’s rejected £40m January bid hints at outside interest, while Watkins’ contract talks remain unresolved.
“The squad depth is insane now,” Watkins noted, referencing January signings Rashford and Marco Asensio. “But I’ve earned my place.”
Tactical Impact: Why Watkins Is Villa’s Unstoppable Force
Beyond goals, Watkins’ all-action display against Newcastle showcased why he’s indispensable:
Blistering start – Fastest Villa goal in 5 years (33 seconds).
Creative spark – Perfect through-ball assist for Ian Maatsen.
Relentless pressing – Won 3 duels, 2 key passes (SofaScore).
“He’s not just a finisher he’s the engine,” ex-Villa defender Dion Dublin told BBC Match of the Day.
What’s Next? Emery’s Headache Before Man City & FA Cup Semis
With a crucial clash against Manchester City on Tuesday and an FA Cup semi-final vs. Crystal Palace, Emery faces a selection crisis:
- Stick with Rashford’s pedigree?
- Or reward Watkins’ red-hot form?
“It’s fantastic to be angry,” Emery smirked post-match hinting at a potential U-turn.
