Ollie Watkins scored a hat-trick as Aston Villa beat Brighton 6-1 (Photo: Getty)

Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins has given Gareth Southgate much food for thought after scoring a hat-trick against Brighton on Saturday.

The England manager was in attendance at Villa Park as the home side tore apart the high-flying Seagulls, emerging as 6-1 victors.

Watkins bagged three of the goals and also recorded an assist, meaning he now has 10 goal contributions in as many games across all competitions so far.

For many, the 27-year-old is, with the obvious exception of Harry Kane, England’s best striker but surprisingly, he hasn’t been capped for the Three Lions since March 2022.

He has just seven caps for his country, scoring two goals and only one of these has come from the start, but that could all change as Southgate finalises his plans for next summer’s Euro 2024.
‘To be honest, I don’t know when he [Southgate] is here,’ Watkins admitted to TNT Sports after the Brighton win.

‘It is nice when he is but I want to perform and score every game. There have been a few times this season when I have been disappointed and there is always a chance to put it right. I am going to enjoy it.

It’s lift off for Aston Villa! 🤩

Ollie Watkins reaches Matty Cash’s cross to give his side the lead! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/XbmzoYJk9D— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) September 30, 2023
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