Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins backed to hit goal trail in Premier League

Unai Emery is sure that goals will come for Villa striker Ollie Watkins as he prepares to make his Premier League debut.

Watkins is yet to score in the Premier League this season and had a frustrating afternoon against Crystal Palace on Saturday, seeing one shot stopped by goalkeeper Sam Johnstone and another hit the post.

But Emery is unconcerned, pointing out that the 27-year-old scored a hat-trick in Hibernian’s 5-0 Europa Conference League play-off round triumph last month.

The manager believes Watkins, Villa’s top scorer in each of the last three seasons, will not be deterred by his present adversity.

“He’s strong in his mind, his mentality is amazing on the training ground, going there every day to learn and practice,” Emery said. He did not score in the Premier League, but he did score three times for Hibernian.

“At Burnley, he had the same opportunities, three very good opportunities that the goalkeeper saved.” He had two excellent chances, but the goalkeeper saved both.

“I like him because he works every day.” He will score goals since it is his nature as a striker. We’re going to assist him, and I’m extremely pleased with him.”

Watkins had a terrific second half of last season after Emery arrived, and while he has yet to score in the league this season, he has been useful in other ways, including being fouled for both penalties converted by Douglas Luiz in home wins against Everton and Palace.

Luiz has now taken over penalty duties and has a perfect record from the spot, having also scored at Hibernian.

“We decided for Douglas Luiz to practice penalty kicks,” Emery revealed. “When there are penalty shootouts like today’s, he feels good and confident.” We also have other players that can take them.”