Ollie Watkins has praised Aston Villa manager Unai Emery as a ‘tactical genius’ after the team’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea.
Watkins netted two goals, helping Aston Villa comeback from behind and achieve an equal club-record winning streak. With this win, Villa has recorded 11 consecutive victories across all competitions, matching the club’s all-time record set in 1897 and 1914. The victory places Villa third in the Premier League, just three points behind leaders Arsenal.
After the match, Watkins, who was substituted in, credited Emery for his strategic adjustments made in the second half.
“He changed it because Chelsea were marking tightly, but they had an extra center-back when we went long,” Watkins explained.
“When I came on, he brought Sancho to the wing and Morgan on, which created a bit more space for us.
“He also positioned Youri in the No.10 role, giving us another attacking option.”
“Tactical genius, I would say.”
This win marked Watkins’ fourth and fifth goals in the Premier League this season. After being left out of the England squad last month due to some less impressive performances, the 29-year-old noted the significance of this victory for him personally.
“Amazing, amazing win,” he stated.
“For me personally, coming on and scoring two goals feels great.
“Continuing this winning streak and overcoming Chelsea at their ground is incredible – that’s the best way to describe it.”
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