Watkins explains exactly how he equalled Thierry Henry’s and Sergio Aguero’s Premier League record in Liverpool victory
Aston Villa secured their qualification for next season’s Champions League with a 4-2 victory over Liverpool.
A brace from Ollie Watkins, along with a goal apiece from John McGinn and Morgan Rodgers, ensured Unai Emery’s side will be playing in the elite European competition next season.
Questions will continue to be asked about the future of Arne Slot following this performance at Villa Park, despite the Dutchman confirming during the week that he will be the manager next season.
Jamie Carragher was on commentary duty for the game, and as a Red legend, he will be disappointed by the result and performance; however, he was infuriated by Alexis Mac Allister's decision to go down in the Villa box following a clash with Ezri Konsa.
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Liverpool know a win at Anfield on the final day against Brentford will secure them Champions League football next season, but there is no guarantee due to their recent performances, particularly with their leaky defence.
The Reds have conceded more than 50 goals in a 38-game Premier League campaign for the first time ever, according to Opta, with Watkins being the beneficiary this evening as the Reds have seen the ball hit their net on 52 occasions this campaign.
However, the England international has a history against the Reds, and it is exactly this that has seen him equal Thierry Henry's and Sergio Aguero’s goal scoring record against Liverpool in the Premier League.
Watkins has now registered eight goals against Liverpool in the Premier League, with no player having scored more against the Reds, with the Englishman equalling the tally of both Henry and Aguero.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Watkins explained exactly how he was able to secure this record against Liverpool.
He said: “Liverpool play a high line and don't play offside, so they're disjointed at the back and feel like there's a lot of space for me to run into. No disrespect to them; the centre backs are world class, but I spot space and opportunities. I like to run in behind.
"Just before the goal, I was disappointed because I went offside; they play such a high line. I shouldn't be offside in that position, but to grab that goal a minute later, me and Morgan [Rogers] have a great connection."
The Villa star will be aiming to add to this goal tally and become the outright holder of the most goals against Liverpool in the Premier League; however, he will be pleased to be in such pristine company in the shape of two legends from the division.
Watkins will be confident that he will now be part of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup after equalling this Premier League record, particularly due to his output this campaign.
The 30-year-old has been directly involved in more goals than any other Englishman has across all competitions this season for a Premier League club (24 – 19 goals and 5 assists), one more than teammate Rogers (23 – 13 goals and 10 assists).
Topics: Ollie Watkins, Liverpool, Aston Villa, Premier League, Football
Brendan McGilligan