Ollie Watkins has shared that his Aston Villa teammate Tyrone Mings has told him he has been selected for England ‘for a reason’ and he should ‘enjoy it’, as he told his pre-match press conference.
The 25-year-old could be in line to make his debut for England on Thursday evening, with England taking on San Marino in a World Cup qualifier.
England fans might be bored out of their skin having to watch such games, against such low-key opposition, but that won’t be the feeling coming from Watkins.
Two of Watkins Villa teammates – Jack Grealish and Mings – have already represented the Three Lions and he has shared how they have helped him this season and leading up to his potential international debut.
“They have both been helpful to me,” said Watkins. “As soon as I went into Villa with Jack being the captain. Straightaway you can see we have a good link-up on the field.
“I feel he’s really helped me this year settle in and Tyrone has taken me under his wing in this camp.
“Ty’s just saying ‘to enjoy it. You are here for a reason and you have earned it. Just to take it all in and enjoying the players you are playing with’.”
The key for Watkins now is trying to book his plane ticket for this summer’s delayed Euros.
He has the advantage of those uncapped players who felt they deserved a call in the sense he can impress in England training and when provided with a chance.
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