Watkins: Everyone in this squad is crucial

England striker Ollie Watkins has yet to make his World Cup debut, but he's convinced that Thomas Tuchel's willingness to unleash fresh players from the bench could be a decisive weapon in their pursuit of glory.

England's 4-2 victory over Croatia offered a glimpse into Tuchel's strategy, with Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, and Morgan Rogers all introduced in the second half, as the coach aims to maintain intensity against tiring opponents.

"I think everyone is crucial in this squad, the depth we have, and the players coming off the bench," Watkins told reporters on Sunday. "I was really excited to see him practically change the entire front three. I think it's exciting to bring on quick players who run forward and score more goals," the footballer asserted.

The Aston Villa forward has been in form, scoring in a 5-1 closed-door friendly win over MLS side Sporting Kansas City on Thursday, as non-starters built match fitness away from the spotlight. "It's just good to get minutes in your legs, rather than just running in a straight line," he said.

Ahead of Tuesday's match against Ghana, he acknowledged the threat posed by Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo. "We know Semenyo is a great player, as you've seen over the last few seasons, but he focuses a lot on us and what we're trying to do with the ball, and how we're trying to dominate them," Watkins stated.

"He's not afraid to shout at you," Watkins said of manager Tuchel. "He's always demanding of you, making sure you're on it every single day. I think that just shows you he's a winner and always upholds standards," he added.

The 30-year-old Watkins has come a long way to reach his first World Cup. A decade ago, he was on loan at Weston-super-Mare, where he claims there was no hot water in the changing rooms. "I'm sure there are a lot of players here at the World Cup who have come through a similar path to mine," Watkins said. "I'm just trying to take it all in, enjoy the moment," the striker concluded.