Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has spoken candidly about the mental toll of a prolonged goal drought, after he finally ended his barren run with a crucial brace in a thrilling 4-3 victory away at Brighton & Hove Albion.
Relief after a 'tricky period'
Watkins admitted the recent spell had been a "tricky period" in his career, revealing the psychological impact of finding the net just once in his previous 19 appearances for club and country. The 29-year-old's struggles were compounded by being omitted from the latest England squad and managing persistent knee pain, as confirmed by manager Unai Emery.
"It's the best feeling to score a goal and that's my job," Watkins told BBC Match of the Day after the match on Wednesday night. "It's been a while without that feeling. Just a bit of relief, really. I had a difficult run and it's nice to put that behind me."
A dramatic comeback at the Amex
Watkins' return to form was pivotal in a remarkable turnaround at the Amex Stadium. After Villa fell two goals behind, the striker ignited the fightback with both goals before half-time. Amadou Onana then put Villa ahead, before Donyell Malen added what proved to be a decisive fourth goal.
Brighton's Jan Paul van Hecke pulled one back to set up a nervy finish, but Villa goalkeeper Marco Bizot secured the three points with an impressive late save to deny Danny Welbeck in added time.
Praise for Emery and focus on the bigger picture
Watkins was full of praise for the influence of manager Unai Emery, whose passion was evident despite losing his voice. "His voice was basically gone. He's so passionate and that's why we're doing so well," Watkins said.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the forward also highlighted his determination to maintain perspective during his dry spell. "It does affect you. It has been hard, but you have to just keep picking yourself up," he explained. "We're in an amazing place. Even though I wasn't scoring, I looked at the bigger picture where we're further in the league. Winning every week, what isn't there to love, really?"
With the drought now firmly in the past, Watkins and Villa will look to build on this dramatic victory as their season continues.
