Ian Wright noticed what happened straight after Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins came on for England vs Netherlands

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Ian Wright has now been applauding Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins for his historic substitute appearance for England in Wednesday’s semi-final win.

Watkins sent England into dreamland with his late strike in the 90th minute which saw Gareth Southgate’s side progress to the final of Euro 2024.

Watkins was introduced for Harry Kane in the 81st minute and certainly didn’t waste his opportunity.

Aside from his goal, which will never be forgotten by England or Villa fans, Watkins also simply changed the game with his much-needed energy.

Watkins was immediately trying to stretch the game in place of Kane – who had already played his part by scoring England’s controversial penalty.

Had the game gone to extra-time, there was enough evidence to suggest that Watkins would have continued to cause the Dutch defence problems – who weren’t enjoying their fresh challenge.

That being said, Wright has been sharing his own thoughts on Watkin’s impact speaking on the ‘Wrighty’s House’ podcast. 

Ian Wright thought Ollie Watkins’ pressing changed everything for England

Wright admitted that he screamed when Watkins was introduced, delighted that Southgate had made the bold call to replace his captain.

The pundit thought Watkins immediately made a difference with his pressing and positioning – a cameo which will go down in history.

Wright said: “Honestly, I screamed out when Ollie Watkins came on, even the intensity of the press, he was chasing defenders, making things happen, getting his body into a position where the midfield could play it in to him.

“He brought a whole different problem that we have not had in the games we have played up until this point.

“No defender has been put under any kind of pressure until I think Ivan Toney came in with his physical presence, Ollie Watkins is making the run, we don’t score that goal unless he comes on to the pitch.”

Watkins has been frustrated in Germany

Of course, it’s odd to imagine that Watkins is still very likely to sit on the bench when England face Spain on Sunday.

But the Aston Villa striker will surely understand Southgate’s decision, who has his whole squad invested in England’s fortunes.

Watkins will have been frustrated to see Ivan Toney get chances ahead of him at times in Germany, but he evidently reacted to the disappointment in the best way possible.

And the Villa hitman will be ready to contribute in any way he can in England’s first final overseas.

READ MORE: James Maddison sends 11-word message to Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins after England beat Netherlands