Watkins embraces supporting role, sees England's bench strength as World Cup weapon

Ollie Watkins, England's striker, is confident that the team's significant squad depth and manager Thomas Tuchel's tactical flexibility in utilizing substitutes will be a decisive factor in their World Cup campaign. Watkins noted that the victory over Croatia offered a glimpse of this strategy, with multiple attacking changes made in the second half to sustain pressure against tired opponents.

"I think everyone's crucial in this squad, the squad depth that we have, and the players coming off the bench the other day," Watkins told reporters. "I was really excited when I saw 60, 70 minutes that he was basically changing the whole front three." He emphasized the value of introducing "pacey players that run forward, score more goals," describing it as "exciting."

“

I think everyone's crucial in this squad, the squad depth that we have, and the players coming off the bench the other day. I was really excited when I saw 60, 70 minutes that he was basically changing the whole front three. I think bringing on pacey players that run forward, score more goals, I think it's exciting.

Watkins has been actively maintaining his fitness, scoring in a closed-door friendly against MLS side Sporting Kansas City. He views these matches as crucial for building match sharpness. "It's just good to get that flow of minutes into your legs, rather than just running in a straight line," he explained. The striker also acknowledged the threat posed by upcoming opponent Antoine Semenyo but stressed England's focus on their own game plan.

Reflecting on Tuchel's coaching, Watkins described the manager as intense and demanding, constantly pushing players to maintain high standards. "He's not afraid to shout at you," Watkins said. "He's always demanding from you, making sure you're on it every day. I think it just shows you that he's a winner, and he's always driving the standards." However, Watkins also noted that Tuchel is "very relaxed and chilled" off the pitch. Watkins, who once played in non-league football with no hot water in the changing rooms, is cherishing his World Cup experience, acknowledging the long journey many players have undertaken to reach this stage.

“

He's not afraid to shout at you. He's always demanding from you, making sure you're on it every day. I think it just shows you that he's a winner, and he's always driving the standards. (But) when it's around the base camp, he's very relaxed and chilled.