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Oliver George Arthur Watkins

~Ollie

Dec 30' 1995

Nationality
England

The Exhilarating Story...

Born on December 30, 1995, in Torquay, Devon, Oliver George Arthur Watkins — known today as Ollie Watkins — is a name that resonates with persistence, patience, and purpose. The journey of this England international wasn’t scripted in glamorous academies or elite youth setups. Instead, it was forged in the quiet corners of Exeter, where dreams often struggled to breathe. Raised in Newton Abbot, Ollie was brought up by a single mother, Sarah Watkins, who played a critical role in shaping his early discipline and determination. Life wasn’t easy — not financially, not emotionally. His love for football came early, but access to resources, coaching, and opportunities was limited. While many of his peers pursued traditional paths, Watkins learned to survive and adapt, playing for Exeter City’s Academy, often doubted for being “too slight” and lacking physicality. Exeter City almost gave up on him. At one point, Watkins was released from the academy system, left wondering if football was truly his calling. But instead of folding under pressure, he used the rejection as fuel. He trained harder, improved his diet, worked on his physique, and developed an intense work ethic that stood out. A key turning point came when he rejoined Exeter’s U18 team and caught the attention of coach Paul Tisdale, who became a major influence and mentor in Ollie’s resurgence. Watkins’ breakthrough season came in 2016–17, scoring 16 goals for Exeter and earning EFL Young Player of the Year. Still, big clubs weren’t calling. But Brentford FC, known for developing underappreciated talent, saw potential. The move to Brentford in 2017 wasn’t just a step up — it was a chance to belong. There, under Thomas Frank, Ollie transformed from a winger into a deadly striker. Brentford trusted him. He delivered. Yet, his Premier League dream was still distant. Watkins waited, watched peers move on, and kept grinding. When Aston Villa signed him in 2020 for a then-club-record fee, critics questioned the decision. But within weeks, Watkins silenced doubts — including a memorable hat-trick against Liverpool in a 7–2 win. That moment became symbolic of his journey: explosive, unexpected, and deeply personal. Off the pitch, Ollie credits his close-knit group — especially his mother Sarah, youth coach Mark Jenkins, and Villa teammates like Tyrone Mings — for grounding him during his transition to the spotlight. They reminded him that humility is a superpower, especially in an era of noise. Watkins’ England debut came in March 2021, where he scored just 20 minutes after coming on. From a boy who faced academy rejection to scoring in an England shirt — his story is a beacon for every young athlete who thinks the door has closed. It hasn’t. It’s just not your time yet. As of 2024, Watkins has become an integral part of the England Euro 2024 squad, playing alongside stars like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. His consistency at Villa under manager Unai Emery, where he finished the 2023–24 season as their top scorer, has made him one of the most complete forwards in the league — quick, sharp, and selfless. In a world of instant fame, Ollie Watkins reminds us that some players bloom late — and those blossoms are often the most beautiful. His story isn't just about goals; it's about growth, gratitude, and grace under pressure.

I'm always going to be striving for more. You can't settle.

Signature

Career

Last updated: May 16' 2025
Club

Exeter City

  • Career: 2014–2017
  • Appearances: 68
  • Goals: 21
Club

Weston Super Mare

  • Career: 2014–2015 (Loan)
  • Appearances: 24
  • Goals: 10
Club

Brentford

  • Career: 2017–2020
  • Appearances: 132
  • Goals: 45
Club

Aston Villa

  • Career: 2020–Present
  • Appearances: 182
  • Goals: 75
Club

England Football Team

  • Career: 2021–Present
  • Appearances: 18
  • Goals: 5

Achievements

England

  • 1× UEFA European Championship runner-up

Individual

  • 1× PFA Fans' Player of the Month
  • 1× Football League Young Player of the Month
  • 1× EFL League Two Player of the Month
  • 1× EFL Young Player of the Year
  • 1× EFL Championship Player of the Year
  • 2× PFA Team of the Year
  • 1× Aston Villa Supporters' Player of the Season
  • 1× Aston Villa Players' Player of the Season
  • 1× Premier League Playmaker of the Season
  • 1× Premier League Fan Team of the Season

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