Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew has delivered a stark assessment of Ollie Watkins's situation at Aston Villa, stating the England striker should seek a move away from the club when the transfer window reopens.
Pardew's Damning Verdict on Villa Future
Speaking on talkSPORT, Pardew did not mince his words, suggesting the relationship between player and club is irreparably damaged. "I think Ollie wants to move, if I’m honest," Pardew stated. He pointed to a pivotal moment last season as the breaking point: Watkins being left out of the starting line-up for both legs of Aston Villa's Champions League quarter-final, with loanee Marcus Rashford preferred instead.
"He’d earned the right with all the goals that had got them there and then he doesn’t play," Pardew explained. "I just think there’s a bridge burned there that is difficult to come back from. I do think that relationship is broken."
Watkins's Fading Role in Emery's Plans
The striker's opportunities have diminished significantly this season, underpinning Pardew's argument. Watkins has found the net just once in 19 appearances across all competitions. His place in Unai Emery's first-choice eleven has evaporated in recent weeks.
He was an unused substitute for the Europa League match against Young Boys on Thursday, 28th November, where Donyell Malen scored twice. Malen's performance earned him a starting berth in the following Premier League fixture, a 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Villa Park on Sunday, 1st December. Watkins was introduced only as a 54th-minute substitute in that match, playing a mere 36 minutes.
January Crossroads for England Hopeful
With the winter transfer window opening in exactly one month, Pardew believes a January exit is the best course of action for all parties. Analysing the player's demeanour, he added, "looking at his body language and everything else about him, probably best for everybody for him to move on."
Pardew also highlighted the potential international ramifications, noting that to regain his place in the England frame, a transfer might be necessary. This adds another layer of urgency to the situation as Watkins aims to secure regular football.
The advice comes despite Aston Villa's excellent form, with the win over Wolves propelling Emery's side up to fourth in the Premier League table. It appears that even within a successful squad, not every player's future is assured.
