Euro 2024 final: England’s Ollie Watkins praises Spain’s Lamine Yamal as a ‘talented player with a bright future ahead’.

Ollie Watkins, the Aston Villa striker, has responded to King Charles’ call for no late drama in the European Championship final by stating, “We don’t care how we win.” Watkins is hopeful that England can “get the job done” when they face Spain in the final, but he is wary of the “generational talent” Lamine Yamal.

Yamal, who is only 16 years old, became the youngest player to score at a Euros by more than 18 months when he equalised against France in the semi-finals. Watkins praised the teenager, but also advised him to stay “grounded and focused” amidst the hype surrounding him.

Reflecting on his own semi-final goal against the Netherlands, Watkins admitted that he had “manifested” scoring a crucial goal, despite not playing much prior to the match. He believes that whatever you put into the universe, you get back.

While Spain has been the standout team in the tournament so far, Watkins highlighted that England have “goals from everywhere” across the team. He acknowledged Spain’s attacking flair but expressed confidence in England’s strength and their ability to get the job done.

In response to Spain’s warning about Jude Bellingham, Watkins stated that the experience from the last Euros is firmly on the players’ minds and they will work hard to avoid making the same mistakes.