Ollie Watkins injured during Aston Villa win but Unai Emery issues encouraging update

By premiernews On Mar 14, 2024

Ollie Watkins went off injured during Aston Villa's win over Ajax, but Unai Emery says it is not as bad as first thought.

The front He opened the scoring for Unai Emery's team in a 4-0 victory in the second leg of the Europa Conference League round of 16 against Ajax.

Watkins was seen on the grass in pain.Credit: Getty

However, he had to make way in the 33rd minute after struggling to deal with a knee injury he suffered early in the match.

Watkins' hit comes just hours after he was named in the england team for the next friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.

However, Villans boss Emery suggested there is still a chance Watkins could be available for those games as he issued a positive update on his player.

“It's nothing more than a cut on the knee,” Emery said. “Maybe he could be available for Sunday (against West Ham), but we will have to wait and see.”

READ MORE ABOUT OLLIE WATKINS

The 28-year-old's goal against Ajax was his 22nd of the season in all competitions. townand third in the competition.

Watkins has proven to be key for Unai Emery's side in their quest to qualify for the Champions League next season, with Villa currently fourth in the Premier League standings.

Watkins' 16 league goals are the second-most behind Manchester City's Erling Haaland, who has 18 this campaign.

Watkins has also assisted ten other Villa goals, in his last call-up for the England certainly deserved team.

The Villa star had to limp off the pitch just half an hour later.Credit: Getty

However, he could now miss the Three Lions' upcoming matches, with Harry Kane and Ivan Toney the other forwards selected.

Durán replaced Watkins as Villa took a 1-0 half-time lead after a 0-0 draw in the first leg.

Bailey doubled their lead just before the hour mark with some great skill before rolling the ball into the bottom corner.

Durán added the third of the night with a powerful shot that hit the underside of the crossbar before crossing the goal line.

Watkins' absence, however long, could prove costly for VillaCredit: Getty

Villa made it 4-0 through Moussa Diaby as they progressed to the quarter-finals, with Liverpool also joining them after beating Sparta Prague 11-2 on aggregate.

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