Marrying his attacking and creative attributes together, Watkins’ off-ball running is also a key part of his wider contribution to his team going forward. Across the Premier League, he is one of the men most likely to stretch the opposition’s defensive line with his intelligent movement.

Arsenal chiefs took everyone by surprise on Tuesday by tabling a reported £45million bid for Aston Villa star Watkins, not least of all Villa themselves. The offer was firmly rejected, but at least finally signalled Arteta’s intention to land a proven goalscorer.