Proud Watkins on ‘unbelievable feeling’

Ollie Watkins spoke of his pride and described an “unbelievable feeling” as he became Aston Villa’s all-time Premier League leading goalscorer.

The striker picked the perfect moment to register his 75^th top-flight goal for the club, sealing a crucial 1-0 victory over AFC Bournemouth at Vitality Stadium.

Watkins, who also has 33 assists in 182 league appearances, moved ahead of Gabby Agbonlahor’s 74 goals in claret and blue – writing his name into Villa history.

“It’s something I had my eyes set on since I joined the club,” he told VillaTV.

“My first interview I can remember walking in, the day I signed at the training ground, seeing Dean Smith and that’s what I had my eyes set on.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling, to be honest.

“I’ve put in so much hard work, on and off the pitch, and to be at a club like Villa, seeing the players who have played here.

“Just to be in the history books with all the top players is something I’m really proud of.

“It’s something I’ll definitely celebrate and hold on to.

“I think Gabby can keep quieter now...”

Watkins, 29, joined Villa in September 2020 and has registered double figures in each top-flight campaign at the club.

The England international opened his league account for Villa with a hat-trick in our 7-2 triumph over Liverpool in October 2020.

And his record-breaking 75^th goal came courtesy of the finest of touches from Morgan Rogers’ cross in first-half injury time.

“Sometimes that’s all you need,” said Watkins.

“Last week I had a cross similar, Cashy put it in and put it on a plate for me, I missed that.

“But you go again, this week I’ve got that delicate touch that’s put it in and it was nice to see it hit the back of the net.

“Unbelievable feeling seeing all the fans so happy and cheering my name.

“All the boys and staff are so happy for me as well.

“It’s a collective effort and I couldn’t have done it without them and my family.

“Really proud moment for me.”