30 Facts About Ollie Watkins

Early Life and Background

Ollie Watkins, a name that has become synonymous with football excellence, has a fascinating journey. Let's explore some intriguing facts about his early life and background.

1. Born on December 30, 1995, in Torquay, England, Ollie Watkins grew up in Newton Abbot, Devon.
2. Watkins attended South Dartmoor Community College, where he balanced academics and football.
3. He joined Exeter City's youth academy at the age of 9, showing promise from an early age.
4. Despite his talent, Watkins faced several rejections before making it big, including being released by Exeter City at 16.
5. His perseverance paid off when he rejoined Exeter City and signed his first professional contract in 2014.

Rise to Prominence

Watkins' journey to the top wasn't easy. His rise to prominence is a testament to hard work and dedication.

6. In the 2016-2017 season, Watkins scored 16 goals for Exeter City, earning him the EFL Young Player of the Year award.
7. His impressive performance caught the attention of Brentford FC, who signed him in July 2017 for a fee of £1.8 million.
8. Watkins quickly became a key player for Brentford, scoring 26 goals in the 2019-2020 season.
9. He was named the Championship Player of the Year in 2020, solidifying his reputation as a top talent.
10. Aston Villa signed Watkins in September 2020 for a club-record fee of £28 million.

Aston Villa Career

Watkins' move to Aston Villa marked a significant step in his career. His impact on the team has been profound.

11. He scored a hat-trick against Liverpool in October 2020, leading Villa to a stunning 7-2 victory.
12. Watkins finished his debut Premier League season with 14 goals, making him Villa's top scorer.
13. His versatility allows him to play as a central striker or on the wings, adding depth to Villa's attack.
14. Watkins' work rate and pressing ability make him a valuable asset in both offensive and defensive phases.
15. He has formed a strong partnership with fellow Villa forward Jack Grealish, creating numerous scoring opportunities.

International Career

Watkins' talent hasn't gone unnoticed on the international stage. His journey with the England national team is just beginning.

16. He received his first call-up to the England squad in March 2021.
17. Watkins scored on his international debut against San Marino, a dream start to his England career.
18. He has been praised by England manager Gareth Southgate for his professionalism and attitude.
19. Watkins' performances for England have earned him comparisons to legendary strikers like Alan Shearer.
20. He aims to secure a regular spot in the England squad for major tournaments.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond football, Watkins has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Let's delve into some lesser-known aspects of his life.

21. Watkins is a big fan of music and often shares his favorite tracks on social media.
22. He enjoys playing video games, particularly FIFA, where he often plays as himself.
23. Watkins is passionate about fashion and has been seen sporting trendy outfits off the pitch.
24. He is an advocate for mental health awareness and supports various related charities.
25. Watkins has a close-knit family and often credits them for his success and motivation.

Achievements and Records

Watkins' career is decorated with numerous achievements and records. Here are some highlights.

26. He became the first player to score a hat-trick against Liverpool in the Premier League since 2010.
27. Watkins was named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year for the 2019-2020 season.
28. He won the EFL Player of the Month award twice during his time at Brentford.
29. Watkins has been nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award multiple times.
30. He is one of the few players to have scored in all four tiers of English professional football.

Final Thoughts on Ollie Watkins

Ollie Watkins has made a name for himself in the world of football with his impressive skills and dedication. From his early days at Exeter City to his current role at Aston Villa, Watkins has shown remarkable growth and talent. His journey is a testament to hard work and perseverance. Fans admire his ability to score goals and his versatility on the field. Watkins' story inspires many young athletes dreaming of making it big in sports. As he continues to play and evolve, there's no doubt that Ollie Watkins will keep making headlines and winning hearts. Keep an eye on this rising star; his best is yet to come. Whether you're a football enthusiast or just love a good success story, Watkins' career is one to watch.