Wayne Rooney has praised Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, comparing him to elite strikers like Harry Kane and Erling Haaland.

According to Rooney, Watkins is a rare example of a classic centre-forward in modern football, where teams often prioritize playing out from the back. Rooney’s endorsement of Watkins highlights the striker’s impressive abilities and potential.¹
Rooney’s Endorsement of Watkins
Rooney’s comments on Watkins come as Manchester United consider potential signings to bolster their attack. Watkins has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, and Rooney believes he would be an excellent fit under manager Ruben Amorim. With a knack for finding the back of the net, Watkins has been in impressive form for Aston Villa, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess.
Watkins’ Rise to Prominence
Watkins’ rise to prominence has been swift, with the striker adapting well to the Premier League. His performances have earned him recognition as one of the top strikers in the league, and his ability to hold up the ball and create chances for his teammates has been particularly impressive.
Comparison to Kane and Haaland
Rooney’s comparison of Watkins to Kane and Haaland is a testament to the striker’s skill and potential. All three players have been in excellent form, consistently scoring crucial goals and driving their teams forward. While Kane and Haaland are established stars, Watkins is still developing his game, but his potential is undeniable.
Aston Villa’s Ambitions
Aston Villa has ambitious plans, and Watkins is a key part of their attack. With his impressive form and Rooney’s endorsement, Watkins could become a major star in the Premier League. His ability to score goals and create chances will be crucial to Villa’s success this season.
However, it seems the actual player Rooney was referring to is Jordan Pickford, not an Aston Villa player. Pickford has been praised by Rooney for his exceptional goalkeeping skills, and the Everton shot-stopper has been instrumental in the team’s success. Rooney believes Pickford is underappreciated and among the best goalkeepers in the world.² ³