Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins provided an update after picking up a knock during England’s win over Wales on Thursday night.
The 29-year-old got on the scoresheet in the 3-0 win at Wembley in what will hopefully be an important confidence boost for him when he returns to Villa next week, but he was replaced at half-time after sustaining a potential injury issue.
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Fortunately, as per PA journalist Jonathan Veal, Watkins told reporters as he made his way through the mixed zone after the game that he’ll “be ok”, and so it’s hoped that it isn’t anything serious as he will know how heavy a knock he took and whether or it not it might sideline him.
Given our lack of alternative options to lead the line in terms of natural frontmen, it’s crucial that Watkins is able to stay healthy throughout the season, as although Unai Emery can call upon the likes of Donyell Malen and Morgan Rogers to lead the line if needed, we’re a lot more effective when it’s Watkins as our focal point up top, with others able to work around him.
Villa aren’t back in action until October 19 when we face a trip to north London to take on Tottenham, and so it’s hoped that gives Watkins ample time to fully recover, as it remains to be seen firstly if he’ll be available for selection for England when they face Latvia in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday night.
Discussions will no doubt be taking place between the two respective medical teams to determine if the Villa ace should return to Bodymoor Heath to receive further treatment or if he’s given the green light to remain with the England camp and travel, but hopefully there are no doubts over his availability against Spurs in just over a week’s time.
It’s been a slow start for the Villa frontman as he’s scored just one goal in 10 appearances so far this season as part of our overall struggles through the opening six games of the campaign, but having turned things around prior to the international break with four consecutive wins across all competitions, it’s hoped that the confidence is not only returning for Watkins but for the entire team as we look to build on this turnaround in form.