Steven Gerrard compares Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins to his successful former Liverpool partner Fernando Torres

STEVEN GERRARD thinks Ollie Watkins are Aston Villa’s answer to Fernando Torres.

Gerard says he now sees the best in the England striker, 26, and wants him and Danny Ings to ensure their partnership produces goals.

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the villa Boss saw both players find the net in the net 4-0 demolition of Southampton on Saturday.

Now he is looking to carry that form to Leeds tonight and record three straight Villa wins for the first time this season.

Watkins ended a seven-game dry spell with two goals in as many games after being left out.

Gerrard sees similarities to his Ex-Liverpool team-mate Torres.

He said: “I picture Ollie best when he’s right up front and aggressive with the bite between his teeth.

“He’s a great player who stands out with his goals and technical ability. He reminds me of Fernando Torres in many ways. Ollie has this physical presence and figure.

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“It was about refocusing Ollie. I took him out of the line of fire.

“From that moment on, he seems to have retrained his aggression, that twinkle in his eyes, and that’s where we need him.

“When he’s in that groove, he’s a really big addition to this team. But with Ollie and Danny Ings — we’re starting to build that relationship.

“I said, ‘You two are the key to this. You have to believe in it and want it to work.’ They certainly have the last couple of weeks.”

Gerrard admits he faces stiff competition for loanee Brazilian and Barcelona star Philippe Coutinho.

He added: “If you had told me that a lot of people would look at him on the back of his form for Aston Villa, I would have taken that.

“We have an option on Phil at the end of the season. We will make a decision when the time is right.”

Talks have begun with Ashley Young, 36, about a new deal.

Gerrard said: “There have already been talks. I made it clear to Ash that I want him to stay close.”

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