Ollie Watkins reveals TWO Aston Villa stars' 'heavy nights' meant he had to play at Man City

Ollie Watkins admits he only played for Aston Villa against Manchester City because two of his team-mates had overdone celebrating the club's Europa League triumph. Watkins made the most of his unexpected start after scoring twice to seal a 2-1 in for Villa on Pep Guardiola's final appearance as City boss. And he revealed afterwards that he was only on the pitch, because Jadon Sancho and Tammy Abraham were not in the best condition to be included. Unai Emery's squad have been painting the town red since beating Freiburg to win the club's first trophy in 30 years.

Watkins said: "I think that's definitely the best week (of my career). It's been an unbelievable week. What we have achieved so far is indescribable. To finish on a high like that today is top.

A week to remember. "A few boys dropped out because we had a heavy couple of nights. I ended up playing, but everything happens for a reason. I got the two goals and we ended on a high." Follow our Facebook page!

Get more news and Aston Villa analysis here Watkins, meanwhile, paid tribute to Guardiola and described him as the best manager of all time. He added: "He is the best there has been. His record speaks for itself. John Stones and Bernardo as well are unbelievable payers.

They are world class. "It was nice to give them a send off today on such a special day. I'm glad we could show some respect to them."