When Thomas Tuchel named his first England squad in March, one notable absentee was Ollie Watkins. The Aston Villa striker, fresh off a stellar campaign the previous season, found himself outside the international setup, a decision that raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike. But rather than sulk, Watkins has responded with a scintillating run of form that is making Tuchel's next squad selection almost a foregone conclusion.
Watkins’ omission was perhaps surprising given his consistency. Yet, Tuchel signaled a desire to evaluate other options up front, temporarily leaning towards established names and younger talents. For Watkins, it was a clear setback—but also a motivator. He returned to club duty with a point to prove, and Aston Villa have reaped the rewards.
In the weeks since that squad announcement, Watkins has been nothing short of sensational. His movement, pressing, and clinical finishing have powered Villa’s surge in the Premier League. The standout moment came in a 2-1 victory away at Manchester City, where Watkins led the line with energy and purpose, constantly testing the City backline and playing a crucial role in Villa's famous win. His all-round contribution was pivotal—drawing defenders, creating space, and linking play when it mattered most.
That performance, and others, caught the eye of Match of the Day pundits Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney. Shearer, the Premier League’s record goalscorer, described Watkins as “unbelievable” in his current vein, highlighting the intelligence of his runs and the ruthlessness of his finishing. Rooney, a former England captain and Manchester United legend, was equally effusive, noting how Watkins has added new layers to his game this season.
Shearer’s praise centered on Watkins’ mentality. Being dropped by your national team can shatter confidence, but Watkins channelled the frustration into elite performances. Shearer pointed to the striker’s work rate off the ball and his knack for being in the right place at the right time—qualities that had been somewhat underrated until now. “He’s electric,” Shearer remarked, a sentiment that quickly circulated on social media.
Rooney focused on the bigger picture. As someone who experienced countless selection battles with England, he recognized the significance of a player forcing his way back through sheer productivity. Rooney emphasized that Watkins isn’t just scoring tap-ins; he’s creating chances, holding up play, and linking effectively with teammates—a complete forward’s skill set that Tuchel will struggle to ignore.
The clamor for Watkins’ return isn’t merely based on highlights. Since the March snub, his performances have placed him among the division’s elite forwards. He has been a consistent threat in front of goal and, more importantly, has lifted Villa’s attack in crunch matches. If England are to challenge at the highest level, having an in-form striker with a point to prove could be invaluable.
For Tuchel, the situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity. England already boast Harry Kane, one of the world’s finest goalscorers, but depth is crucial. Watkins offers a different profile—a mobile, pressing forward who can stretch defenses. With major tournaments on the horizon, having such a weapon in reserve (or even alongside Kane) could be a tactical masterstroke.
The next England squad announcement looms, and Watkins’ name now feels inevitable. His performances have effectively silenced any debate. If Tuchel omits him again, the backlash would be immense—not just from pundits but from a fanbase that values form over reputation. Watkins has forced the issue with his feet, and now the ball is in Tuchel’s court.
In the end, Watkins’ story is one of resilience. The disappointment of March has been transformed into a burning desire that has lifted his game to new heights. Shearer and Rooney, two icons of the English game, have given their verdict; the public has taken note. As the England boss finalizes his plans, one thing is certain: Ollie Watkins has made his statement, and it’s impossible to ignore. Based on reporting from BBC Sport.
