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

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

The striker opened the scoring for Unai Emery's side in their Europa Conference League last 16 second leg 4-0 win against Ajax.

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

Watkins' blow comes just hours after he was named in the England squad for upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.

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

"It’s no more than a cut on the knee," Emery said. "Maybe he could be available for Sunday [against West Ham] but we’ll have to wait and see."

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

Watkins has proven so 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 table.

Watkins' 16 league goals is the second highest tally behind Manchester City's Erling Haaland, who sits on 18 for the campaign.

Watkins has also assisted another ten goals for Villa, with his latest call-up for the England squad certainly deserved.

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