Aston Villa news: Steven Gerrard told to change system after Ollie Watkins reveal – pundit
Kevin Phillips has called on Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard to change system to accommodate both Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Claret and Blue claimed the pair woud be “a right handful” for any defence in the Premier League.
Villa lacked cutting edge in a lacklustre 1-0 defeat at Newcastle United on Sunday.
Watkins led the line at St. James’ Park, while Ings was named on the bench for the third successive game.
As per Villa Analytics (14 February), Watkins ranks better than Ings in expected goals per 90, passes per 90, pass completion and duel success rate.
When asked for his thoughts on who should lead the line, Phillips told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs: “Stats don’t always paint the full picture.
“Personally, I would like to see them play together. They are both a handful and are both good players.
“I was excited about watching Villa at Newcastle because I’d heard so many good things but they were poor. That’s why I’d like to see Stevie G change it up and play Watkins and Ings together.
“Danny Ings is your typical centre-forward. He likes to pull on shoulders and run in behind.
“Watkins has a bit of everything. He can hold it up, head it, run the channels and is strong.
“Can you tweak the system to get them both in the team? Those two together would be a right handful for any back four. Steven Gerrard needs to sort it out moving forward.”
In other news, Aston Villa have been tipped to sell one of their big-money signings after he ‘stormed off’.