Yahoo News Ollie Watkins and the Golden Boot race-the remaining fixtures of Palmer and Haaland
Aston Villa's successful transition into a top-tier Premier League team has seen Ollie Watkins emerge as an England international and one of the best strikers in the league.
Villa fans have seen Watkins banging the goals in all season, so much so that he is in line for the ultimate accolade - the Premier League Golden Boot.
Cole Palmer has joined Erling Haaland on 20 goals for the season following his stunning four-goal performance against Everton on Monday night. Mauricio Pochettino's side thrashed the Toffees 6-0 at Stamford Bridge, with Palmer playing a pivotal role and taking his league goal tally to 20 for the season.
Palmer opened the scoring after just 13 minutes with a beautifully curled shot, before doubling Chelsea's lead five minutes later with a close-range header, capitalising on Jordan Pickford's failed clearance. The 21 year old completed his hat-trick in style, lobbing England's No. 1 from distance after a misplaced pass from the goalkeeper.
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The young attacker added a fourth from the penalty spot 19 minutes into the second half, earning a standing ovation from all corners of Stamford Bridge for his outstanding performance. Despite looking like an outsider for the Golden Boot after his hat-trick against Manchester United two weeks ago, Palmer is now a serious contender, competing against his former Man City teammate Haaland.
But Watkins is just one behind, and the former Brentford man is scoring goals for fun. We take a look at what Palmer, Haaland and Watkins have left to face in their remaining games of the 2023/24 season?.
Cole Palmer (20 goals).
Remaining fixtures: Arsenal (A), Aston Villa (A), Tottenham (H), West Ham (H), Nottingham Forest (A), Brighton and Hove Albion (A), Bournemouth (H).
Palmer's advantage in the Golden Boot race could be his extra game over Haaland and two more than Watkins. The England star is currently on a hot streak, and it's expected he'll add to his tally in the remainder of the 2023/24 season.
Despite Chelsea's upcoming challenging league matches, Palmer's exceptional form suggests he'll continue finding the back of the net.
Erling Haaland (20 goals).
Upcoming matches: Brighton and Hove Albion (A), Nottingham Forest (A), Wolves (H), Fulham (A), Tottenham (A), West Ham (H).
The Premier League title race seems to be tilting towards Man City, with Haaland playing a crucial role as they aim for their fourth consecutive title. Although the Norwegian hasn't been as prolific this season, he's likely to have ample scoring opportunities in the final stretch as Pep Guardiola's side ramps up their title pursuit.
Considering their favorable end-of-season fixtures, it's no surprise that Haaland remains the favourite to clinch the Premier League Golden Boot.
Ollie Watkins (19 goals).
Remaining fixtures: Bournemouth (H), Chelsea (H), Brighton and Hove Albion (A), Liverpool (H), Crystal Palace (A).
With only five Premier League matches left this season, Watkins is eyeing the Golden Boot. The Aston Villa striker has had a stellar season under Unai Emery, netting four more goals than last season.
Villa are well-positioned for Champions League qualification, and Watkins will be key in their battle against Tottenham for fourth place.
Alexander Isak (17 goals)
Remaining games: Crystal Palace (A), Sheffield United (H), Burnley (A), Brighton and Hove Albion (H), Manchester United (A), and Brentford (A).
He's currently on top form and could potentially upset the Golden Boot race in the coming month.
Despite a season marred by injuries, Newcastle are still vying for European football. With a favourable end-of-season schedule, Isak has the chance to increase his goal tally in the final six games against teams like Sheffield United, Burnley, and Brentford.
Mohamed Salah (17 goals)
Remaining games: Fulham (A), Everton (A), West Ham (A), Tottenham (H), Aston Villa (A), and Wolves (H).
Liverpool could really benefit from Salah finding his top form again, especially after their unexpected loss to Crystal Palace last Sunday. The Premier League title is now within Man City's grasp, and Liverpool can only hope for another twist in the tale as Jurgen Klopp strives to end his Anfield career with a championship win.
Salah, who has only netted twice in his last five league games, has a mountain to climb if he wants to outscore Haaland, Palmer or Watkins for the Golden Boot.
Dominic Solanke (17 goals)
Upcoming matches: Aston Villa (A), Wolves (A), Brighton and Hove Albion (H), Arsenal (A), Brentford (H), Chelsea (A).
Solanke is in contention for the Premier League Golden Boot following an exceptional season with Bournemouth on the south coast. The Cherries do have some challenging away games in their final six fixtures, including trips to Aston Villa, Arsenal and Chelsea.
While it may be tough for Solanke to surpass Haaland and others in the remaining part of the season, he can certainly be proud of his overall performance this season, having scored consistently.
