Ollie Watkins believes that Aston Villa is in a good place after they have closed their preseason schedule with a triumph at Villarreal.
The striker was on goal in the first half to help his side to a 2-0 success, with EMI BuendÃa also on the score sheet.
Watkins was happy with how the preseason happened for the team, after a schedule of eight matches with collisions against some big names in European football.
“It was really a good game,” he reflected pitchside in Spain.
“Of course different conditions for us here, really hot but pleasant.
“I really enjoyed the game and it was a good preseason for us. In Nashville, against Roma and Marseille, there have been a number of good tests for us.
“The last game here tonight has been positive, so that is good for us for the weekend.”
Watkins is in good shape in the preseason and scored five times and it is in stark contrast to last summer when he was dealing with an injury after his exploits for England at Euro 2024.
He said: “Pre-season is crucial for yourself as a player. It sets the basis for you that goes into the season.
“I didn't have that last season. I didn't play in matches for the season, so I tried to catch up.
“For me it is huge to play these games, to feel good, to set up your confidence and enter the season, all weapons blazing.”
The focus is now shifting to the start of the Premier League campaign on Saturday, when Villa Newcastle United Host.
Watkins would like to start with a winning start in B6, while the team wants to build on three strong seasons under Unai Emery.
“I'm just looking forward to being back in Villa Park, because we didn't play pre-season matches there,” he said.
“It will be nice to play for a full villa park again – I missed that feeling.
“We have big goals for the season and it starts on Saturday against Newcastle.”