Unai Emery
Aston Villa’s star striker, Ollie Watkins, has been grappling with a persistent knee issue that has significantly impacted his performance this season. Despite a promising pre-season where he scored five goals, Watkins has managed only one goal in 19 matches this campaign and just four in his last 33 appearances for the club. The situation has been further compounded by the emergence of Jhon Durán, who stepped up in Watkins’ absence, netting four goals in the first five league games and contributing in the Champions League.
Unai Emery said: “He’s keeping a small pain in his knee since last year when we started the season in August. He was feeling more or less the same pain he’s feeling now. We needed Jhon Duran as a second striker, he scored goals and helped the team. Now he (Watkins) is feeling the same pain. He’s not feeling the 100 per cent – we are trying to manage it with him. As a striker we can use him, now (Donyell) Malen has been replacing him and doing fantastically, scoring goals, working tactically like we need. Watkins, we want him to get the best fitness, with no pain and playing consistently.”
Emery continued: “For example, yesterday he did not train, we kept him inside, only with the physios. But he will be available for tomorrow. We are trying to get some moments of rest for him. He won’t have surgery, for this pain he needs rest. He can play, progressively, hopefully he can feel 100 per cent well and only focus on his play and not on his pain.”
The knee pain that Watkins is experiencing has been a lingering issue since the start of the previous season. Despite this, the club has decided against surgery, opting instead for a management approach that includes rest and physiotherapy. Emery’s decision to rest Watkins from training sessions highlights the club’s cautious approach to ensuring his long-term fitness.
While Watkins’ fitness remains a concern, the performances of Donyell Malen have provided some relief for Aston Villa. Malen’s ability to step in and deliver crucial goals has been instrumental in maintaining the team’s competitive edge. However, the club is keen on having Watkins return to full fitness, as his presence and goal-scoring capabilities are vital for their aspirations this season.
The ongoing management of Watkins’ knee issue will be crucial for Aston Villa as they navigate the demands of both domestic and European competitions. Fans and management alike will be hoping for a swift recovery that allows Watkins to perform at his peak without the hindrance of pain.
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