Aston Villa manager Unai Emery expresses unwavering confidence in striker Ollie Watkins, predicting a return to goal-scoring form despite him netting only once in 19 appearances this season.
According to a report from Birmingham Live, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has voiced his unwavering belief in striker Ollie Watkins, despite the player suffering a significant goal drought this season.
Watkins has scored just once in 19 appearances, with his solitary goal coming as the equalizer against Fulham in a match that eventually led to Villa’s first Premier League win at the sixth attempt.
Despite the striker’s lack of goals, which led to Donyell Malen being preferred to start against Wolves on Sunday, Emery maintains his full support.
When questioned about the competition between the two players, Emery stated: “Olie Watkins has my complete confidence. He is always doing his task.”
The manager acknowledged that Watkins may be feeling the pressure: “Maybe he is feeling under his confidence because he is not scoring, but he never gives up on his task.”
However, Emery emphasized the striker’s contribution beyond goalscoring, adding: “He always does positive work for the team, and he is very important for us.”
Emery concluded by making a strong prediction about Watkins’ form: “The goals are coming, for sure. For sure.” The manager also expressed happiness with Malen, noting:
“His commitment is very important, how he is showing it.” Aston Villa have secured 21 points from 24 available in the league since drawing with 10-man Sunderland.