Police look into Watkins' fan abuse claims

Aston Villa forward, Ollie Watkins, has provided an explanation for his recent celebration that was directed towards a supporter and caused quite the controversy. Watkins stated that the celebration wasn't intended to offend the fan, but was a tribute to a group of friends who had recently lost a loved one. The goal celebration therefore held personal significance and was a commemoration of their friend's life. Some fans had been angered by the celebration, which Watkins acknowledged, but he hoped that they could understand the heartfelt, emotional significance of the tribute.

The London police force will hold discussions with the representatives of Aston Villa and Brentford regarding the circumstances revolving around Ollie Watkins' joyful display during last Sunday's match.

Watkins, a Villa forward, directed his finger towards a Brentford fan after securing a crucial late goal in a 2-1 triumph over his ex-team in the Premier League.

Afterwards, he reported that the fan had been hurling verbal abuse at him during the entire game.

A representative from the police stated that they have knowledge of the allegations.

Authorities will reach out to representatives from Aston Villa and Brentford in order to acquire additional information.

Watkins, who became a part of the Villa team after signing up from Brentwood during the year 2020, has successfully managed to score a total of 14 goals all throughout the ongoing season. Presently, Villa holds the third position in the Premier League tournament and has made it to the final 16 teams in the Europa Conference League.

The players got into a scuffle after celebrating a goal, which later intensified towards the end of the game at the Brentford Community Stadium.

Watkins mentioned that during the entire game, one particular person had been constantly harassing and insulting him since the first corner. This person had been making personal attacks on him throughout the game.

I did not experience racial abuse, but he uttered a multitude of derogatory remarks. While I can handle it happening once, he persisted with the inappropriate comments, even after multiple occurrences. At that point, I decided to retaliate.

The statement was directed solely towards him and not towards any other individual present at the stadium. I hold the club, its personnel, and management in high esteem and admire them greatly. I conveyed this message to him as I was leaving.

The Villa team released a statement to show their backing of Ollie Watkins. They also stated their respect for most of the Brentford fanbase and the club. At the same time, they urged the authorities to look into the incident to identify the person responsible. The Villa team has a strong stance against any form of abuse in football.

When questioned whether he would repeat his actions, Watkins responded to BBC Sport by stating: "If he were to utter those same words towards me, I would take the same course of action once more."

Ian Wright, who used to play for the England football team, commented that a supporter had arrived with negative intentions towards the player, Watkins. Wright suggested that Watkins should remain focused and complete his responsibilities, which included scoring a goal. Despite the negative behavior from the fan, Watkins did not react. Wright emphasized that fans should not dish out criticism without being able to handle it in return.

Alan Shearer, the former football player for England, stated that Watkins has every right to celebrate in the way that he did.

During the game, two players were dismissed, while another 10 received cautions and both managers were cautioned with a yellow card.