Liverpool legend and pundit Graeme Souness has delivered a stark assessment of the Premier League title race, claiming Aston Villa's hopes hinge on striker Ollie Watkins finding consistent form and suggesting Arsenal have a psychological hurdle to overcome.
The Watkins Factor for Villa's Ambitions
Souness emphasised that Unai Emery's side could reach "another level" if their centre-forward starts scoring regularly. Watkins has managed just three Premier League goals this campaign, experiencing a seven-game drought before a brace in the dramatic 4-3 win at Brighton earlier this month.
Despite that double, the England international has failed to net in subsequent outings against Arsenal, FC Basel, and West Ham. Souness pointed to Emery's recent team selections as evidence of concern, stating the manager is "obviously not entirely happy with him because he's not been starting him."
"If he gets back scoring goals, then Villa will just go to another level again," Souness told Sky Bet. "You don't have to be playing well if you've got an out-and-out goalscorer who just keeps scoring for you."
Experience vs. Nerve: City, Arsenal & Villa Analysed
With Villa just three points behind leaders Arsenal and riding a wave of nine consecutive wins ahead of Sunday's clash with Manchester United, the title talk is intensifying. However, Souness believes the experience of serial winners Manchester City will be decisive.
He contrasted the mindset in the Etihad dressing room with that at Villa Park and the Emirates Stadium. "City are just coming good at the right time, which is scary for the rest of them," he said, referencing their recent win at Crystal Palace.
"Aston Villa are a good team, but when you've won the title... you have unbelievable belief," Souness explained. "Arsenal have not got that. City have got that. Villa have not got that."
The Psychological Battle
The former midfielder did not mince his words about the Gunners' recent history, implying it creates a damaging doubt. "City will be thinking, 'We'll win this. Someone will bottle it,'" he claimed.
"For Arsenal, they'll be thinking, 'We've been here before, haven't we? Let's make sure we don't bottle it this time'. And that's a little worm in their head."
Regarding Villa's unexpected charge, Souness acknowledged the novelty of their position but refused to write them off. "Villa have never been near in recent history, and this is all new to them. But who's to say they can't keep going? They have some really good players."
He concluded by underlining the priceless value of a reliable goalscorer, a department where he feels Villa must improve to sustain their challenge. "Goalscoring is the most important thing you can have at a football club, and that's why strikers cost so much money."
