Everton ace Neal Maupay shares what he told Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins last week

Everton striker Neal Maupay has revealed that he named his son after Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins.

Watkins fired himself into the history books on Wednesday (10 July) as he netted a last-gasp winner for England in their 2-1 victory over the Netherlands in the 2024 UEFA European Championship semi-final.

And Maupay has shared a story about his ex-Brentford teammate while speaking on the talkSPORT Breakfast Show (11 July).

Maupay said, “I have a story for you. I named my son after Ollie Watkins.

“When I first met him about eight years ago at Brentford, I loved the name and I said if I have a son one day, I’ll call him Ollie and I called him Ollie.

“Actually I spoke with him last week to let him know.”

Everton striker Neal Maupay is a big admirer of Aston Villa and England star Ollie Watkins

Maupay often finds himself among the headlines for the wrong reasons.

The Premier League’s favourite villain, supporters at Goodison Park will be curious to see what kind of antics the Frenchman serves up next season upon his return to the club.

Maupay spends a lot of time winding up his colleagues. However, it appears on this occasion, he has chosen to show one of them the ultimate mark of respect.

Naming his child after Watkins demonstrates how much love and admiration he has for the Aston Villa star. As a result, the 28-year-old will no doubt be touched by the gesture.

And after firing the Three Lions into their first major tournament final overseas, it wouldn’t be a surprise if there is a sudden influx of Ollies walking around in the next 10 to fifteen years.

Everton, Ollie Watkins
Everton striker Neal Maupay named his son after Ollie Watkins

Watkins has already established himself in England folklore with his semi-final goal.

However, his name could yet be spoken about among the England greats should Gareth Southgate’s side lift the trophy on Sunday 14 July.

In other Everton news, a Davinson Sánchez claim has emerged after a transfer update from Goodison Park.

For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.