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Richie Mills

VIDEO: That's why Arsenal wanted him! Ollie Watkins scores 33 seconds into HUGE Newcastle clash following complaints of being benched by Unai Emery during Champions League chase

Ollie Watkins scored after just 33 seconds against Newcastle United to bring up his 15th Premier League goal of the season for Aston Villa.

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  • Watkins scores after 33 seconds
  • Linked with Arsenal move in January
  • Responds after being benched
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  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    With less than a minute on the clock, Watkins saw his deflected strike fly by the helpless Nick Pope in the Newcastle goal at Villa Park on Saturday. The lead was short-lived, however, as Fabian Schar equalised in the 18th minute.

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  • WATCH THE CLIP

  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Watkins returned to the starting lineup for this huge clash with Newcastle, as both teams vie for Champions League qualification, after voicing his displeasure at being repeatedly benched in recent weeks. Villa rebuffed interest from Arsenal in January but if the 29-year-old continues to be among the substitutes, a Villa Park exit could be on the cards.

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    WHAT NEXT?

    After this Newcastle contest, Watkins' Villa are away to in-form Manchester City at the Etihad on Tuesday.