Ollie Watkins Set for First International Start Against Wales

Ollie Watkins Set for First International Start Against Wales

Ollie Watkins Set for First International Start Against Wales

England head coach Thomas Tuchel is preparing to give striker Ollie Watkins his first international start since November in the upcoming friendly against Wales on Thursday night.

Captain Harry Kane will miss the match due to a foot injury sustained while playing for Bayern Munich over the weekend, but he is optimistic about being fit for the World Cup qualifier against Latvia next Tuesday.

Watkins is expected to step in as the lone centre-forward, taking Kane's place as England hosts Craig Bellamy's team at Wembley Stadium.

The Aston Villa striker has been a consistent presence in the England squad since making his debut in March 2021. His last start was during a 3-1 Nations League victory in Greece, where he scored under interim manager Lee Carsley in November 2024.

At 29 years old, Watkins is also remembered for scoring a dramatic 90th-minute winner in England's semi-final victory over the Netherlands at Euro 2024, which secured their place in the final against Spain, although they ultimately lost 2-1.

Despite a challenging start to the season with Aston Villa, Watkins has managed to find the net once, contributing to his team's 3-1 victory over Fulham.

In Kane's absence, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice is set to captain the team. The 26-year-old was confirmed by Tuchel on Monday as one of the leadership options, alongside Jordan Henderson and John Stones.

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