Aston Villa skipper John McGinn praised Ollie Watkins after the striker netted a goal. His first goal of the season in a 3-1 comeback victory over Fulham on Sunday.
Villa had been struggling in front of goal, scoring just once in their first five Premier League games. When Raul Jimenez headed Fulham in front early on, the pressure mounted.
Relief came in the 37th minute as Lucas Digne slid a clever pass to Watkins. Watkins then darted between defenders and lifted the ball over Bernd Leno to level the match.
“He’s had a lot of criticism in recent weeks but what he’ll get from us as teammates and staff is love and support,” McGinn said after the game.
“Hopefully that shuts a few people up. What he’s given us over the years has been brilliant. He works tirelessly and when he gets the chance, you expect him to score.”
McGinn rifled Villa ahead four minutes into the second half, and Emiliano Buendía sealed the win soon after – Villa’s first league victory of the season, moving them up to 16th with six points.
“It’s not an easy place to play when the crowd’s on your back, but when we have momentum. Villa Park is special,” McGinn added. “What a win and a huge show of character.”
