Ollie Watkins Reveals the Toughest Defender He’s Ever Faced
In a recent chat with Sky Sports, Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins opened up about the toughest opponent he’s ever faced, and the answer might surprise you. Watkins, who featured for England at the European Championship this summer, took part in the ‘Sticker Book Challenge’ and shared his thoughts on his most challenging opponents.
The 28-year-old was presented with four top-class defenders – Thiago Silva, Max Kliman, Ruben Dias, and Virgil van Dijk – and he opted for Silva as the toughest of the lot. "Some games I feel like I’ve got the better of Van Dijk and Dias, so the toughest one will be Thiago Silva," Watkins said.
Why Silva was the Toughest
Silva made 151 appearances for Chelsea during his four-year stint at Stamford Bridge, lifting the Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, and UEFA Super Cup along the way. He’s a seasoned veteran with years of experience at the highest level.
Watkins recalled his battles against Silva, admitting that he’s never had a good game against the Brazilian. "I just felt like he knew whatever I was going to do, he was just one step ahead, and obviously he’s experienced," Watkins said.
Silva’s Stamford Bridge Legacy
Silva’s departure from Chelsea in April sparked an emotional farewell from the player and the club. Speaking about his time at Stamford Bridge, Silva said, "Chelsea means a lot to me. I came here with the intention of only staying for a year, and it ended up being four years. Not just for me but for my family, too."
The 38-year-old defender reflected on his success at the club, saying, "My sons play for Chelsea so it’s a source of great pride to be a part of the Chelsea family – literally because my sons are here. I hope they can continue their careers here at this victorious club that many players wish to be part of."
Conclusion
In a game filled with talented defenders, Thiago Silva stands out as a true master of his craft. Watkins’ candid admission about his struggles against Silva speaks volumes about the Brazilian’s abilities. As a fan, it’s great to see these kinds of matchups play out on the pitch.
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