Ollie Watkins has praised Aston Villa manager Unai Emery for helping him return to the England squad. The striker returned to the international scene for the first time since March 2022 and scored the winning goal as England beat Australia 1-0 in a friendly at Wembley. last Friday

Watkins the 27 year old has four goals and four assists in his first eight Premier League games this season. UFABET Including a memorable hat-trick against Brighton.

He scored just two goals last season before Emery took over as manager from Steven Gerrard in November. But has since scored in 14 of 26 matches since the Spaniard’s arrival at Villa Park.

Asked how he felt about returning to the England squad, Watkins replied: “I think my mentality has changed since the boss came in, Unai Emery came to Villa.”

“He gave me a lot of confidence. I have improved in the last 18 months since the last time I was in England camp.

“I think it shows in my form and performance here. So I am very happy. And I am delighted to be back in the team and wearing the England shirt.”

“I imagined it all. (Played and scored against Australia) I feel like going on the field. So I’m glad I did it as I thought. And it helps the team win.”

The Spanish coach has previously managed many famous clubs. Including Sevilla, Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, and most recently Villarreal. Where he recently led the team to success, lifting the first European Cup in history club From winning the UEFA Europa League in 2021.