Tony Cascarino, former footballer turned analyst, has made a bold claim that Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins deserves the Player of the Season award over Manchester City's Phil Foden.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Cascarino highlighted Watkins' extraordinary performances throughout the season, which have been instrumental in Aston Villa's transformation under manager Unai Emery.
Watkins, who has been a driving force behind Aston Villa's remarkable transformation under the guidance of manager Unai Emery, has had a season to remember. The 28-year-old forward has found the back of the net an impressive 19 times in the Premier League, all while leading the assists charts with 12, a feat made even more remarkable by the fact that he has not taken a single penalty kick.
Cascarino's preference for Watkins over Foden highlights the significant impact the Aston Villa star has had on his team's success. While Foden's 16 league goals for Manchester City are certainly noteworthy, Cascarino argues that Watkins' contributions to Aston Villa's unexpected rise carry more weight in the Player of the Season conversation.
At the start of the season, few would have predicted that Aston Villa would be in contention for a top-four finish and potential Champions League qualification. However, under Emery's leadership and with Watkins spearheading the attack, the Villans have defied expectations and emerged as one of the Premier League's most exciting teams.
Watkins' performances have not gone unnoticed by the football community, with many now calling for his inclusion in England's squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament.
His ability to consistently deliver in high-pressure situations, combined with his goal-scoring prowess and creative vision, could make him a valuable asset for the Three Lions.
As the Premier League season enters its final stages, the spotlight is firmly on Watkins and Foden, two of England's most promising talents. While Foden's contributions to Manchester City's success cannot be overlooked, Cascarino's bold claim has ignited a fascinating debate about the true meaning of individual excellence and its impact on a team's fortunes.
For Aston Villa fans, Watkins' extraordinary season has been a source of immense pride and excitement. The forward's performances have not only propelled the team to new heights but have also captured the imagination of supporters who have long dreamed of seeing their club compete at the highest level.
As we eagerly await the conclusion of the Premier League season and the announcement of individual awards, Watkins' name is sure to be at the forefront of discussions.
Whether he ultimately claims the Player of the Season title or not, there is no denying that his contributions to Aston Villa's success have been nothing short of remarkable.