Ollie Watkins was back in the starting line -up of Aston Villa for the visit of Newcastle United was omitted from both feet against PSG, and produced an excellent display in the thrashing of the magpies
Ollie Watkins was fed by 'anger' when he helped Aston Villa a vital victory. The English ace had to play second violin to Marcus Rashford, but scored one and made one to let Newcastle sink after he was recalled by Boss Unai Emery.
But Watkins admits that he was not happy to be left against PSG on the couch – and told his manager so much.
He said: “I didn't lie – I was smoking that I didn't play. I told him. He is the manager at the end of the day. I respect his decision. But I am not one of the players who like to sit on the couch.
'It is something that I have never experienced before, where I miss the biggest stage. You always want to play, especially in the Champions League. Me and a few others are disappointed that we did not start the game, but as I said, it is the decision of the manager.
“I wanted to start in the important games because I played a major role to get to where we are today. Instead of being hindered, you have to use that anger and be insisted on proving the manager differently.”
Emery insisted: “It was a very good conversation. I want to try to help all my players. We clearly raised the level and demands before we didn't have enough players to play. If I have two players per position, not just 11 players, then the team has momentum.
“He is fantastic when he plays like today. I am very happy with my players.”
Jason Tindall again filled in for Newcastle -Baas Eddie Howe, who suffers from pneumonia, but could not give an update about his manager.
He said: “It was a difficult evening and probably a step too far with the physical exertion we have had. I will stay the lead until otherwise told. The most important thing for ED is that he rests and recovers. The more he does that, the faster he can lead the team again.”
Tindall revealed that Fabian Schar went off with a hamstring problem.
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