Ollie Watkins Could Boost England at World Cup, Says Rooney

Ollie Watkins could become a surprise catalyst for England at the 2026 World Cup, former captain Wayne Rooney claimed on 5 July 2026, urging manager Gareth Southgate to give the Brighton striker a more prominent role.

Rooney, speaking on a Sky Sports panel, highlighted Watkins’ recent Premier League form-12 goals and 5 assists in the first half of the season-as evidence that the forward is in peak condition. He argued that Watkins’ work‑rate and ability to press high fit the modern English game, offering a tactical edge against South American opponents.

The former England striker pointed out that while Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford dominate headlines, Watkins provides a different skill set. Unlike Kane’s target‑man presence, Watkins thrives on quick inter‑changes and late runs into the box, a trait that helped Brighton secure a 2‑1 win over Liverpool on 2 April 2026. He also noted that Ivan Toney, another often‑overlooked forward, shares a similar profile, making a case for a dual‑striker system.

If Southgate takes Rooney’s advice, Watkins could be named among the final 26‑man squad, potentially starting on the bench and rotating in during group‑stage matches. The manager has previously praised Watkins for his professionalism, and a World Cup call‑up would reward his consistency after a season that saw Brighton finish fifth in the Premier League.

England’s opening match against Senegal is set for 21 June 2026. Should Southgate opt for a more aggressive press, Watkins could replace Rashford in the 60th minute, exploiting his stamina against a tiring defence. Rooney believes the forward’s ability to win duels in the final third could turn tight games in England’s favour.

Critics warn that Watkins lacks extensive tournament experience, having never featured in a major finals. Additionally, his defensive contributions are still under scrutiny; opponents may target his positioning to force errors. Still, Rooney insists the potential upside outweighs the gamble.

Social media buzz surged after the interview, with #WatkinsWorldCup trending on Twitter. Supporters highlighted his 2025-26 goal tally and praised his humility, arguing that a fresh face could energise the squad.

Watkins will finish the season with Brighton, aiming to add another goal before the World Cup break. He remains tight‑lipped about his international future, but a strong finish could tip the scales in his favour.

The conversation sparked by Rooney’s comments adds another layer to England’s selection puzzle, and all eyes will be on whether Watkins earns a spot when the final squad is announced later this month.