Aston Villa surrendered a golden opportunity to strengthen their Champions League pursuit, settling for a thrilling 2-2 draw against Burnley. The result saw them drop two crucial points in the race for a top-five finish, leaving them to regret what might have been against a side already relegated.
Despite the disappointment, Villa manager Unai Emery refused to criticise his team’s performance, acknowledging the squad was still feeling the effects of their midweek Europa League semi-final triumph. Instead, he shone the spotlight on forward Ollie Watkins, who delivered another impressive display.
“He is doing fantastic,” Emery told the BBC. “He is a fighter. Three months ago, he was a little down, but we always have conversations about being consistent and working for the team every match. Now he is getting the numbers.”
Watkins has now scored in consecutive games for Aston Villa and added an assist to his tally. Over his last 10 appearances, he has netted seven goals and provided two assists. His resurgence has been vital for the Villans, especially after a difficult start to the season when he struggled in front of goal.
Now that Watkins has rediscovered his sharpness, Villa appear set to finish the campaign in strong fashion. They are desperate to hold onto fifth place in the Premier League table with only two matches remaining.
But the road ahead is tough. Villa face title-chasing Manchester City and fourth-placed Liverpool, both eager to secure their own positions. Additionally, they have the Europa League final against Freiburg on May 20, where Watkins could prove decisive.
If the England international maintains his current form, he will be a major threat to Freiburg’s defence. Watkins has the capacity to lead Villa to glory, potentially delivering the club’s first major trophy in 30 years and their first European silverware since 1982.
