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Ollie Watkins has been named in England’s 26-man squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Words: Regan Foy | @findfoy
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Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins has been named in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad for England’s upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 European Qualifiers.
The striker joins Sam Johnstone who also receives his first ever call-up to the national squad.
Elsewhere, Jesse Lingard has worked his way back into England reckoning with scintillating form for West Ham United.
Watkins will also be joined by Aston Villa teammate Tyrone Mings, who remains in the squad after last year’s international games.
Jack Grealish has missed out on a call-up via injury over the last month, whilst Ezri Konsa and Matt Targett, both of whom were said to be in with a chance of representing their country, have missed out also.
Gareth Southgate, in his 2pm press conference this afternoon where he announced the squad, said:
“We wanted an extra striker – Ollie’s goal record has been good and we like his personality.
“It’ll be good to get to know him.
“We like his pressing, the speed, the runs. He’s got improvements to make with linking the play, but he’s done exceptionally well.”
The forward, who broke Aston Villa’s transfer record when signing from Brentford last summer, has scored 13 goals and assisted three across thirty appearances in all competitions this season.
Best of luck on international duty, Ollie!
