Ollie Watkins' journey to Premier League prominence is a testament to dedication, hard work, and unwavering self-belief. From humble beginnings in non-league football to becoming a key figure for Aston Villa and a contender for the England national team, Watkins' story is one of inspiration and continuous improvement.
Early Life and Career
Born in Torquay, Devon, on December 30, 1995, Ollie Watkins' footballing journey began in the youth system of Exeter City. He honed his skills and developed a passion for the game, eventually making his professional debut for the Grecians in League Two at the age of 18.
Watkins' early years at Exeter were marked by loan spells at Weston-super-Mare and Truro City, valuable experiences that provided him with crucial game time and exposure to senior football. These loan spells allowed him to develop his skills and build confidence, laying the foundation for his future success.
Breaking Through at Exeter City
Upon returning to Exeter, Watkins quickly established himself as a first-team regular, showcasing his versatility by playing in various attacking positions. His ability to score goals from different areas of the pitch, combined with his tireless work rate and intelligent movement, caught the attention of clubs in higher divisions.
During his time at Exeter, Watkins consistently demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess, earning accolades and recognition for his performances. His contributions were instrumental in solidifying Exeter's position in League Two.
Championship Success with Brentford
In 2017, Ollie Watkins made a significant move to Brentford in the Championship. This transfer marked a crucial step in his career, providing him with the opportunity to test himself at a higher level of competition.
At Brentford, Watkins flourished under the guidance of then-manager Dean Smith, who later became his manager at Aston Villa. Initially deployed as a winger, Watkins transitioned to a central striker role and his goal-scoring output exploded. He became a prolific goalscorer, consistently finding the back of the net and terrorizing Championship defences.
His exceptional performances during the 2019-2020 Championship season, where he scored 26 goals, earned him the prestigious EFL Championship Player of the Season award. This accolade solidified his reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in English football.
Premier League Stardom with Aston Villa
Following his impressive season at Brentford, Ollie Watkins secured a move to Premier League club Aston Villa in the summer of 2020. The transfer, which saw him reunite with Dean Smith, represented a significant step up in his career and a chance to prove himself on the biggest stage.
Watkins immediately adapted to the demands of the Premier League, showcasing his ability to score goals against top-level opposition. His pace, power, and clinical finishing quickly made him a fan favourite at Villa Park.
His debut season was a resounding success, highlighted by a memorable hat-trick against Liverpool. He continued to be a key figure for Aston Villa, consistently contributing goals and assists. His performances earned him recognition as one of the Premier League's most promising young strikers.
International Aspirations
Watkins' impressive form at club level has led to calls for his inclusion in the England national team. His consistent goal-scoring record and dynamic playing style make him a strong candidate for a place in the squad. He received his first England cap in 2021, further cementing his status as a rising star in English football. Although he missed out on the 2022 World Cup Squad, his continued development suggests future international opportunities are highly likely.
Playing Style and Strengths
Ollie Watkins is a modern, versatile forward who possesses a wide range of attributes. His key strengths include:
- Pace and Power: Watkins' blistering pace allows him to run in behind defences, creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
- Clinical Finishing: He possesses a composed and accurate finishing ability, capable of scoring goals with both feet and his head.
- Intelligent Movement: Watkins' intelligent movement off the ball makes him difficult to mark, constantly creating space for himself and his teammates.
- Work Rate: He is a tireless worker, constantly pressing defenders and contributing defensively.
- Versatility: Watkins is capable of playing in various attacking positions, including as a central striker, winger, or second striker.
Future Prospects
At just 27 years old (as of October 2023), Ollie Watkins has already achieved a remarkable amount in his career. His continued development and consistent performances suggest a bright future lies ahead. He is a key player for Aston Villa, and his ambition and dedication to improvement suggest he will continue to strive for greater heights, both at club and international level.
With his combination of talent, hard work, and unwavering self-belief, Ollie Watkins is poised to become one of the leading strikers in the Premier League and a prominent figure for the England national team in the years to come. His inspiring journey from non-league football to the top flight is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence.