Aston Villa boss Dean Smith says Ollie Watkins is as good as any striker in the Premier League after their 3-0 defeat of Crystal Palace.
Villa's club-record striker managed three assists in the 3-0 destruction of Crystal Palace this afternoon but, after firing another blank, made it six games without a goal.
Smith said: "I said to them at half-time in the dressing room, 'There's nobody I could choose out of the Premier League to lead the line with 10 men' with Ollie Watkins. I thought he was outstanding today and the only thing missing was his goal.
"Listen, the numbers he produces in terms of his high-speed running and sprinting distances is incredible. The lads really appreciate the work he puts in. He's hit the post, crossbar and their goalkeeper has made good saves as well. He'll be disappointed he hasn't scored but he'll be proud of his performance today helping the team to a brilliant victory."
