‘I’m doing all I can to get there’ – Watkins eyeing England return for World Cup

Ollie Watkins has admitted this season has been the most challenging of his career, but the Aston Villa striker is determined to finish strongly and force his way into England contention ahead of the next World Cup.

The 30-year-old responded to a difficult campaign with a timely brace in Villa’s 3-1 Europa League quarter-final first-leg win over Bologna on Thursday, offering a reminder of his quality at a crucial stage of the season.

With Thomas Tuchel preparing to name his squad for the upcoming warm-up games, Watkins is focused on making a late impression.

“We’ve got a massive tournament in the summer,” he said. “I’m doing all I can to get there, score some more goals before the end of the season and hopefully be in that World Cup squad.”

Ollie Watkins form under scrutiny this season

Watkins’ double in Italy took his tally to 12 goals in 44 appearances across all competitions, a return that falls below the standards he set in recent seasons.

After playing a key role for England at Euro 2024, including his goal in the semi-finals, expectations have risen sharply. Watkins acknowledged that shift has made this campaign particularly testing.

“The toughest moment for me has probably been, throughout all my career, I would say this season,” he said.

“I’ve done so well to get to where I am. You set that expectation where I think I hit a new level, scoring goals and playing in Europe as well.

“After the Euros, there’s more eyes on you, and this year I haven’t been at the level I wanted to. Learning to deal with that is hard.”

Europa League boost gives Aston Villa momentum

Villa’s win over Bologna has given Unai Emery’s side a strong platform as they pursue European silverware.

Watkins’ performance was central to that success, with his movement and finishing providing the cutting edge that has at times been missing during the campaign.

The result keeps Villa firmly on track for a potential semi-final appearance, while also offering Watkins an opportunity to rebuild his confidence in the closing weeks of the season.

England World Cup hopes still alive

Despite his recent omission from the latest England camp, Watkins has not given up on international ambitions.

Competition for places in Tuchel’s squad remains fierce, and the striker knows his margin for error is slim. However, he has turned to experienced voices for guidance during a difficult spell.

One such figure is Michael Owen, who Watkins contacted for advice.

“I messaged him and we just had a chat,” he said. “He was saying when I play angry and I’m being a nuisance, that’s when I’m at my best.”

With Villa competing on multiple fronts and England places still up for grabs, the final weeks of the campaign could yet reshape the narrative of what has, by his own admission, been a difficult year.

The only way he will be able to force his way into Tuchel’s plans is by continuing to score goals, something that is easier said than done.