Ollie Watkins, an England striker, has made hints that he does not intend to leave Aston Villa during the summer transfer window despite rumours that he may join Manchester United.
According to a talkSPORT report from last week, United was ‘considering’ making a bold move to sign the Three Lions international.
This season, he has had an incredible campaign, tallying 13 assists and 27 goals across all competitions. He finished the season with 32 direct goal contributions in the Premier League alone, having scored 19 of his 27 goals there. He had more assists than any other player.
Having played a starring role in helping Villa secure Champions League qualification for next term, Watkins has his sights set on playing in Europe’s premier club competition for the very first time, appearing to pour cold water on the possibillity of a move elsewhere.
“It was disappointing to end such a great season on such a low note at Crystal Palace,” said Watkins, as quoted by the Mirror. “But we have been tremendous all season – very consistent – and we finished where we deserved – with Champions League football coming to Villa Park.
“Next year will be very special. What happened at Palace was poor – individually and collectively – but this doesn’t tell the story of our season. We’ve been great all year.
“On a personal note, I’ve been consistent. There’s not much more I can do. It was the aim – to get to 20 goals – but there’s always next season.
“Has it been a breakthrough? Yes. But I wasn’t surprised by how well I’ve done because of all the hard work I’ve put in. And next season will be better, I’m sure of that.”
Expected to be included in the England squad for the upcoming European Championship in Germany, Watkins anticipates the Premier League to be stronger at the top end of the table next season.
He added: “A lot of teams are competing. People say Chelsea have had a bad year – but I don’t think they have. They’’l be even stronger.
“The new manager at Crystal Palace has them firing. Tottenham are up there. We know next season will be difficult and we must be ready.”
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