Clearly Watkins wasn't at his best on Saturday and had either chance been taken, a different result was certainly possible, if not a probable.
There's no excuse for the first one - not tiredness or a lack of match practice. He simply failed to sort his feet out and get a clean connection. It happens to the best.
Though I'm baffled by the criticism over the second chance. When Onana strikes the ball and it is almost immediately deflected, there are five Arsenal defenders closer to the goal than Watkins, and several other Villa players besides.
It's Watkins who first anticipates and then moves to reach the ball before any defender reacts. Only Bailey is remotely on the same wavelength and 'follows in'.
He's an outstanding player and has shown that he works hard to improve his game. I expect him to get better and make another great contribution this season (if he stays injury-free). UTV
