Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins delivered a damning verdict on Chelsea's defending after his late header secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, 27th December 2025.
Villa's Comeback Seals Vital Three Points
The match saw Chelsea take a first-half lead through João Pedro, putting Unai Emery's side under pressure. However, the introduction of substitute Ollie Watkins after the break changed the game. The England international scored a quickfire brace, with his second goal, an 84th-minute header, proving to be the winner.
Speaking to Sky Sports post-match, Watkins did not hold back in his analysis of the decisive moment. "I felt like they were stood off us," he said. "I've gave him [Malo Gusto] a little shove and he wasn't marking me too tightly. It's basically a free header."
Redknapp Joins Criticism of Gusto's Defending
Watkins' assessment was echoed by pundit and former Tottenham midfielder Jamie Redknapp, who scrutinised the role of Chelsea's 22-year-old defender Malo Gusto. Redknapp pointed out that Gusto initially moved to cover a potential pass from the corner before retreating into the penalty area.
"Once he gets back in, I don't think he shows any appetite to head it," Redknapp stated. "I think he ducks down because he's worried what's behind him. It's too easy, he gets pushed out the way and doesn't do enough. You talk about blockers and markers, he's doing neither."
Title Race Implications and Villa's Growing Belief
The result has significant consequences for the Premier League table. Aston Villa are now just three points behind leaders Arsenal, firmly establishing themselves as outside contenders in the title race alongside Manchester City. Conversely, the defeat leaves Chelsea ten points behind Villa in fifth place, effectively ending their own championship ambitions for this season.
Watkins revealed the growing fear opponents have when facing Villa. "I feel like teams are worried about us, thinking 'ah, we've got Villa next'," he said. While acknowledging his team doesn't always play the prettiest football, he emphasised their relentless threat. The striker insisted the squad is focused on the next game, despite increasing external talk of a potential title challenge.
