As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Aston Villa boss Smith insists Watkins and Konsa capable of England calls

Aston Villa boss Dean Smith insists Ollie Watkins and Ezri Konsa are capable of England call-ups.

Watkins has scored 12 goals since a club-record £33million move from Brentford last summer, and has also struck the woodwork seven times — including in the fourth minute of this draw against Wolves.

Konsa, who moved from Griffin Park 12 months before Watkins, has developed into one of the most promising centre backs in the league and is on the radar of Champions League clubs.

"I'm sure there are a lot Gareth will be looking at," said Smith. "We've got a very British-based squad. Of the regular starting XI, six or seven are English. I'm sure Gareth has been impressed with the season we've had. Konsa, Matt Target, Watkins, all have an opportunity to show Gareth they are there if he needs them.

"Ollie has been a fantastic signing and he'll keep getting better. Ezri is a top player. He's not anywhere near his ceiling yet. We've always believed he is capable of getting into the international scene."

Video of the day:

About the author

Paul Vegas

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free