Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has made his feelings clear to manager Unai Emery regarding his role in crucial matches, particularly in the UEFA Champions League. The talented forward revealed that he was 'fuming' to find himself on the bench for both legs of Villa's quarter-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain. This sentiment underscores the competitive spirit and ambition that drives professional athletes to seek and secure their place on the field during high-stakes games.

Watkins channeled his frustration effectively during Villa's recent Premier League match against Newcastle United, where he scored an impressive goal within the opening minute. His contribution did not stop there; he also assisted another goal, helping his team secure a commanding 4-1 victory. This performance was not just a personal triumph; it also marked a significant milestone in his career, as he matched the club's record for the all-time leading Premier League goalscorer, reaching a total of 74 goals alongside the legendary Gabriel Agbonlahor.

Despite this achievement, Watkins expressed dissatisfaction with his limited playing time, having started only two of Aston Villa's last six games. His frustration heightened during the Champions League second leg against PSG, where he was substituted in the second half while teammate Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, started the match. The loss meant Villa was eliminated from the tournament, intensifying Watkins' desire to contribute more significantly in such high-profile encounters.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Watkins did not hold back his feelings, stating, 'I played 20 minutes against PSG in both games. I am not going to lie, I was fuming that I wasn't playing - I let him [Unai Emery] know that.' His candid words reveal the deep passion he has for the game and his commitment to being an integral part of the team's success. 'He's the manager, you have to respect his decision, but I am not one of these players happy to sit on the bench.' This revelation showcases the internal conflict athletes often face between respecting authority and pursuing their ambitions.

Watkins continued, reflecting on the significance of the Champions League, saying, 'It is something I have not experienced before, to miss out on the biggest stage. I wanted to be out on the pitch for much longer. I have played a big part to get to where we are today and I want to play in those games.' His determination to be involved in critical matches is a testament to his character and work ethic, qualities that many fans and aspiring players admire.

The response from Unai Emery was measured yet encouraging. When asked about Watkins' comments, he stated, 'It's fantastic to be angry and fantastic for him to play like he did [against Newcastle].' This response suggests that while Emery values Watkins' contributions, he also understands the importance of managing team dynamics and maintaining a competitive environment.

As Aston Villa continues its campaign in both the Premier League and domestic competitions, it will be interesting to see how Emery balances his squad selections moving forward, especially with a player as driven as Watkins eager to leave his mark on every game.