Watkins vows to “hit ground running” at Aston Villa after £28million transfer

Ollie Watkins has pledged to hit the ground running at Aston Villa to achieve something “special” after being unveiled as their new record signing.

Striker Watkins has left Brentford for Villa in a £28million deal to be re-united with former Bees boss Dean Smith.

The forward,24, who smashed 26 goals last term, has penned a five-year deal.

The former Exeter marksman, who was loaned to Weston-super-Mare in 2014/2015, insists he can handle the step up to the Premier League from the Championship.

Watkins said: “I want to do something special here and score some goals.

“I want to hit the ground running.I am buzzing I am here and can’t wait.

“I feel the Premier League is like the next step for me.

“I want to be out of my comfort zone and I felt like it was the right time to move on and have a new challenge.

“I am relishing this one.

“It wasn’t long ago I was playing Non-League football when I was out on loan at Weston-super-Mare.

“To now get signed for a Premier League team is a bit surreal but I take it in my stride.

“I’m definitely excited to get back working with Dean, I’m really looking forward to it.

“Him and assistant Richard O’Kelly gave me a lot of confidence playing under them at Brentford.

“Hopefully they can do that again now.”

Watkins’ fee eclipses the £22m paid for Brazilian striker Wesley last summer.

Villa, who spent £150m last season, are splashing the cash again under their wealthy owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens.

Watkins is Villa’s second summer buy behind £16m right-back Matty Cash from Nottingham Forest.

The Midlands club also want a new keeper with targets including Arsenal ‘s Emiliano Martinez.

It promises to be a busy month for Smith, whose side kick off their top-flight season at home to Sheffield United on Monday September 21.

But Smith is thrilled with Villa’s purchases so far after they stayed up last term on the final day.

Smith said: “Ollie has developed into one of the most sought-after strikers in the country and we are looking forward to seeing him show his great qualities in an Aston Villa shirt.

“He is a hugely determined character who has both the ability and personality to succeed at the highest level.”

Watkins will link up with former Brentford defender Ezri Konsa at Villa Park despite Spurs chasing the forward as well.

“It is good to see a familiar face,” added Watkins.

“Hopefully we can have a lot of laughs on and off the pitch.

“He was saying only good things about the club.I think he sold it to me as well.”