Amazingly, Ollie Watsons predicted his thrilling victory over the Netherlands, which propelled England into the Euro 2024 final.

The 28-year-old striker for Aston Villa gave Gareth Southgate’s team a 2-1 victory in Dortmund by scoring an incredible goal in stoppage time.

Watkins, however, says he warned Cole Palmer, another late substitute, they were going to be involved in a goal, so the pivotal moment did not come as a surprise.

 

Cole Palmer set up Ollie Watkins’ dramatic late winner in England’s Euros semi-finalCredit: Getty

Watkins’ brilliant finish has sent England to Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain

“I swear on my life, my kid’s life, I said to Cole Palmer: we’re coming on today and you’re gonna set me up,” Watkins said after smashing home Palmer’s pass.

 

Before coming off the bench against the Dutch at the Euros, the former Exeter and Brentford player had only played 20 minutes.

 

However, his bizarre winner that sent England supporters into a frenzy in the 81st minute proved to be the game-winning play.

 

During his press conference following the game, Watkins stated: “I’m at a loss for words.

 

“Your body experiences certain feelings when you score, but this is a distinct sensation. When I ran to rejoice with the boys, everything seemed to be moving slowly.

 

“I didn’t want to get off the pitch at the end, I wanted to soak it all in as it doesn’t happen often.”

 

He continued, saying, “The goal was my bread and butter, but the ball came into me. Hold up is not my greatest game.

 

“I told Cole Palmer that he would set me up and that we would both go onto the pitch, and that is exactly what occurred.

 

It’s not a chance that comes up very frequently, so I had to be bold and accept the risk. I don’t believe I have ever hit the ball with such sweetness before.”

 

Watkins has scored four goals in his fourteen England caps, capping off a fantastic season.

 

In 53 games, he netted 27 goals and provided 13 assists for Villa, helping them qualify for the Champions League.