Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins faces a significant challenge to his England World Cup ambitions after being excluded from the expanded 35-man squad for upcoming friendlies. His form has been a major concern, with just one Premier League goal in his past nine matches. Watkins himself acknowledged his struggles, stating his form hadn't been 'that great' after Villa's 2-0 win over West Ham.

His lack of goals (10 in all competitions this season) and absence from Tuchel's final pre-World Cup training camp have raised doubts. However, his recent goal against West Ham offers a glimmer of hope, and former England midfielder Danny Murphy believes Watkins is 'not completely out of it yet'. Goals for Villa between now and the end of the season could see him regain Tuchel's attention.