Watkins:“I swear on my children's lives, I told Cole Palmer today that we're going on the pitch and he sets me up and I score. And it happened.”
"When it went in the bottom corner, it was the best feeling ever."
27 goals and 13 assists for Aston Villa this season, his first chance at the Euros and… he scored.
Ollie Watkins told Cole Palmer he would set him up for a goal as they were waiting to come on for England.
The forward then scored the winning goal, assisted by Palmer, to seal a 2-1 win over the Netherlands and book their place in the Euro 2024 final.
The Three Lions had to come from behind once again after Xavi Simons' early goal gave the Netherlands the lead, before Harry Kane levelled from the spot shortly after.
Asked about his goal, Watkins said he knew what to expect as soon as Palmer got the ball at his feet.
"I've been waiting for that moment for weeks," Watkins told ITV Sport after the game.
"It's taken a lot of hard work to get to where I am today. Grateful I got the opportunity, and I grabbed it with both hands. I'm delighted.
"I swear on my life and my kid's life, I said to Cole Palmer: We're coming on today and you're gonna set me up.
"And that's why I was so happy with Coley. I knew as soon as he got the ball, he was gonna play me and you've got to be greedy.
"Touch and finish. When I saw it go in the bottom corner, best feeling ever."
One criticism of Gareth Southgate at the tournament so far has been the timing of his substitutions, with the England manager often choosing to leave it late before making any changes.
Watkins has defended his manager's tactics, crediting the "special" nature of the squad.
"There's been a lot of critiscism but at the end of the day we're in the final," he added. "So forget the outside noise, we're in the final.
"It's special. We've got that bounce-back factor. Going a goal behind seems to kick us into gear.
"We never give up. We've won on penalties, we've come from behind. One more game. We're ready for Spain."
tutekntuz
592
They'll always praise how the food is delicious but they don't bother about the the cooker. Palmer make football look so easy to play
Zuzdiklpry
454
England please, coach please use this team for final against Spain and thank me later
Shmonny
279
Well done, Cole Palmer! Your assist shows your skill and vision on the field. Keep making those crucial plays and contributing to your team's success. Your hard work is paying off, and you're making a significant impact. Keep it up! 👏🌟
MogastyJn
271
The game changer ❤️❤️
Shmonny
259
COLE PALMER has certainly made a name for himself with his impressive performances! His creativity, skill, and vision on the field bring a dynamic edge to the team. Palmer's ability to influence the game and make key plays is truly commendable. Keep up the fantastic work, Palmer —your talent and hard work are shining through and making a real impact! 🌟👏❤
ChelseaFC_Addict
184
COLE Palmer is better than Phil Foden!!!! Watkins had so much hope and belief that his goal will come from Palmer wow
sustainokosisi
166
Nobody asked you just fuck off!!
jealousy will kill you before your time bro, drop this ego now.
punikmnrsz
170
man I knew you were the missing link I knew you were going to score the winning goal because I saw you score almost the same goal against Arsenal