Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins has revealed he sought advice from former England striker Michael Owen during what he describes as a “difficult” season.
Watkins, who has scored nine goals and provided one assist in 30 Premier League appearances this season, admitted his form has been below his expectations.
The disclosure comes as part of an interview with Kelly Somers for the BBC’s “The Football Interview” series.
Watkins Reflects on His Career Path
Watkins’ journey to the top includes playing in the National League with Weston-super-Mare. He later scored the winner in a European Championship semi-final. Now he is competing in the Champions League with Aston Villa.
The interview explores Watkins’ mindset and motivation, career highs, and personal reflections.
Form and Future Ambitions
Despite describing this season as mixed, Watkins recently scored against West Ham before the international break. He then scored twice against Bologna in the Europa League on Thursday.
These goals took his tally to 99 for Villa and have prompted renewed talk of a potential late entry into Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad.
Beginnings in Football
Watkins recounted his early football memories to Kelly Somers. He said that his mum always used to say as soon as he could walk he was kicking bouncy balls around.
He also shared how he would often return home with footballs he’d found while playing in the street.
Watkins recalled joining his first team after tagging along with a friend to football practice. He found he was quite good at it, so just kept going.
The full interview will be broadcast on BBC One from 23:35 BST on Saturday, 11 April (and after Sportscene in Scotland).