Unai Emery offers encouraging Ollie Watkins injury update

The Aston Villa head coach spoke about the extent of Ollie Watkins’ injury

Unai Emery has claimed that Ollie Watkins’ injury is not believed to be serious as Aston Villa prepare for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Brentford. However, the striker remains a doubt after being forced off in midweek European action.

Watkins was withdrawn during the first half of Villa’s 3-2 Europa League victory over RB Salzburg on Thursday night after experiencing discomfort in his hamstring.

The incident immediately raised concerns given the forward’s importance to Emery’s side and his consistent output this season, with eight goals already in the Premier League.

Speaking after the match, Emery played down the severity of the issue, suggesting the decision to remove Watkins was precautionary rather than a response to a clear injury.

“He felt something, but not a lot,” Emery said after Villa’s win over Red Bull Salzburg. “We will test him. Hopefully, we are thinking that is not a lot. I don’t know if he will be available for Sunday.”

Watkins is now set to undergo further assessment before a final decision is made on his availability for Brentford’s visit to Villa Park.

Emery and his medical staff are expected to proceed cautiously, aware that hamstring problems can quickly worsen if a player is rushed back too soon.

Villa will be already missing Youri Tielemans, Andres Garcia, Boubacar Kamara, John McGinn and Ross Barkley, all of whom are sidelined through their respective injuries.

Tammy Abraham poised for second Aston Villa debut

If Watkins is unavailable or only fit enough for a place on the bench, Villa have a ready made alternative in Tammy Abraham, who could make his second debut for the club this weekend.

Earlier this week, Abraham completed a £18.25 million move back to Villa from Turkish side Besiktas, strengthening Emery’s attacking options at a crucial point in the season. The 28-year-old striker is no stranger to Villa Park, having spent the 2018/19 campaign on loan at the club.

That season remains one of the most productive of Abraham’s career. He scored 25 goals in 37 Championship appearances, playing a central role in Villa’s promotion to the Premier League and establishing a strong connection with supporters.