Back to the Newcastle United Newsfeed

'He's sitting alongside Erling Haaland since the World Cup!': Rio Ferdinand claims 'magnificent' Ollie Watkins is going toe-to-toe with Man City's goal-machine - and says Aston Villa star HAS to be in the next England squad

Rio Ferdinand has claimed 'magnificent' Ollie Watkins is going toe-to-toe with Man City's goal-machine Erling Haaland.

The forward, 27, scored twice as Aston Villa earned a 3-0 win over Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday.

Watkins netted Villa's second with a sharp strike on the turn from point-blank range in the 64th minute.

He grabbed his 11th goal in his last 12 matches six minutes from time with a simple finish at the back post.

The former Manchester United defender also said the Villa star has to be in the next England squad.