Ex-Villa Striker McCormack: Watkins' Selflessness Sets Him Apart from Abraham
Former Aston Villa striker Ross McCormack has weighed in on the debate between Ollie Watkins and Tammy Abraham, asserting that it is not a close comparison. McCormack believes Watkins' mobility and selfless link-up play make him a superior fit for Unai Emery's system at Villa Park.
Key Assist Highlights Watkins' Team-First Mentality
McCormack, 39, who joined Villa in a £12 million transfer from Fulham in 2016 but struggled during his time at the club, pointed to Watkins' assist in the Europa League victory over Lille as a prime example of his quality. In that match, with Villa leading and Emi Buendia setting up a clear chance, Watkins opted to pass to Leon Bailey for an easy tap-in, securing their place in the quarter-finals.
"I think Ollie Watkins, his assist just shows me that he's a top player," McCormack told BirminghamLive. "Nine strikers out of ten would have taken the shot, probably missed, but he squared it to someone in a better position."
Recent Form and Managerial Support
Watkins followed this assist with a goal against West Ham, ending a nearly two-month drought in the Premier League. Despite calls for Abraham to receive more starts, McCormack backs Emery's preference for Watkins, citing his ability to prioritize the team over personal glory.
"When you're struggling a little bit and you've got those kind of characters who look out for the team more than themselves, that will shine through," McCormack added. He also noted that Watkins and Abraham are unlikely to play together effectively, as Abraham prefers to operate as a lone striker.
Praise for Unai Emery's Management
McCormack, who was signed by Roberto Di Matteo but never found his best form under subsequent managers like Steve Bruce, Dean Smith, and Steven Gerrard, expressed admiration for Emery's impact. Emery has guided Villa to fourth in the Premier League and the Europa League quarter-finals, achievements that seemed distant during their Championship years.
"I'd have loved to play under every top manager, and I think Unai Emery, in terms of what he's done with this Aston Villa squad, he's got to be up there as one of the best in the Premier League," McCormack said. He emphasized that Emery's structured approach, focusing on positional sense and team roles, offers valuable lessons for players, even if they do not always enjoy his methods.
In summary, McCormack's analysis underscores Watkins' unique attributes and Emery's transformative influence, positioning Villa for continued success in domestic and European competitions.
