Aston Villa produced a stunning late comeback to defeat Chelsea 2-1 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, with substitute Ollie Watkins scoring a decisive second-half double to keep the pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Rooney Praises Villa's Game-Changing Substitutes
The victory, secured on Saturday 29th December 2025, marked Villa's 11th consecutive win in all competitions and their eighth in a row in the Premier League. This crucial result leaves Unai Emery's side just three points behind Arsenal, whom they face in a top-of-the-table clash in north London this Tuesday.
Despite a quiet first half where they failed to register a shot on target, Villa stayed in the contest. The tide turned after manager Unai Emery made a triple substitution just before the hour mark. Former England captain Wayne Rooney, analysing the match for BBC Match of the Day, highlighted the impact of the changes.
"I thought the three lads who came on were excellent and really made a big difference to this Aston Villa team," Rooney said. He specifically praised Amadou Onana for his presence in midfield, Morgan Rogers for a superb assist, and match-winner Ollie Watkins.
Watkins Answers His Critics in Style
Watkins, who had scored only three times all season before this game, was the hero. The 29-year-old striker came off the bench to net twice, completing a dramatic turnaround for the visitors.
"To come on and get the two goals to win is an amazing feeling," Watkins said after the final whistle. "We're doing unreal in the league. We just keep winning and I don't think we look like slowing down either."
Manager Emery added: "[Watkins] was so, so focused. Keeping the gameplan like we planned, disciplined doing it, and doing his task. He's normally getting his numbers, and today scoring goals is, of course, fantastic."
A Major Dilemma Ahead of Arsenal Showdown
The performance has created a significant talking point ahead of Villa's trip to the Emirates Stadium. When asked by presenter Gabby Logan if Watkins now presents a selection headache for Emery, Rooney was unequivocal.
"He does," Rooney stated. "I think we need to see more from him this season, because he has started games and he hasn't scored goals. But he's on the bench today, and he's answered his manager in the right way. He's scored two goals and won Aston Villa the game."
The win solidifies Villa's position in the title race, maintaining a seven-point gap over fourth-placed Liverpool. With Chelsea and Manchester United a further three points back, the victory at Stamford Bridge stands as a major statement of intent from the West Midlands club.
