Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has been omitted from the latest England squad, a decision that may ultimately serve his club's ambitions well as they chase a top-four finish in the Premier League.
Villa's Form and Watkins' International Setback
Aston Villa are positioned in 6th place after their first 11 fixtures, sitting just a single point outside the coveted Champions League spots. The Midlands club appears to have found its rhythm under manager Unai Emery, culminating in a confident 4-0 victory at home to AFC Bournemouth just before the international break. Goals from Emi Buendia, Amadou Onana, Ross Barkley, and Donyell Malen sealed the comfortable win.
However, the international break brought mixed news for the squad. While teammates Ezri Konsa and Morgan Rogers received call-ups, Thomas Tuchel decided not to select the 29-year-old Watkins for England's upcoming matches against Serbia and Albania. The England boss has instead opted for other attacking options like captain Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford.
Why the Omission Could Be a Silver Lining
Watkins' absence from the national team setup is being viewed by many as a blessing in disguise for Aston Villa. The primary benefit is the protection of his fitness. With a crucial away trip to Leeds United at Elland Road on Sunday, 23rd November, Villa will have their key striker fully available and rested.
The forward, who has 20 caps for the Three Lions, can use this period to recharge and return with a refreshed mindset, having avoided the potential for burnout associated with international travel and training. This is particularly valuable given that England's matches are considered dead rubbers, as the team has already qualified for the upcoming World Cup.
A Boost for Villa's Packed Schedule
For Aston Villa, who are currently juggling domestic duties with European football, the fixture list is demanding. The matches are coming thick and fast, and the club needs its key players ready and firing to manage the increased workload.
Watkins, who has scored only one goal in 16 matches for Villa this season, will now have a clear opportunity to rebuild his confidence on the training ground without distraction. Since his £28 million move from Brentford in 2020, he has found the net 88 times in 239 appearances for the club. This break from international duty could be the perfect catalyst for him to rediscover that prolific form, turning personal disappointment into a significant advantage for Unai Emery's European-chasing side.
