Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins withdrew from international duty with England, and fans feared he would not be available for this weekend’s clash with Everton.
The 28-year-old is reportedly okay and ready to play the Toffees, as manager Unai Emery confirmed today in his press conference ahead of the match-up.
“He is progressively getting better,” Emery said (via Birmingham Mail). He is in the squad, thinking to be available tomorrow.”
Watkins will be looking to open his account for the season after firing blanks in the opening three Premier League fixtures. He spurned a golden chance against Arsenal and knows he must make amends.
Watkins has struggled to replicate his excellent form from last season in which he spearheaded Villa to Champions League qualification with 19 goals and 13 assists. This term he has missed four big chances without registering a goal.
Some have urged Emery to start the in-form Jhon Duran, who scored twice in the first three league games and notched a fine assist during the international break.
Emery noted that he was happy with Duran’s form, praising the Chelsea and West Ham United transfer target for his maturity.
Meanwhile, Watkins will be eager to show that this dip in form is temporary with a goal or two against the struggling Everton sitting at the foot of the league table.
The Toffees have shipped ten goals this term, the most in the division, and Watkins and co will want to add to their misery.
Emery also had terrific news regarding defender Ezri Konsa. The England international is in the team to face Everton despite a scare during the break.
Emery said: “The players coming back after playing with their national team, they are in the squad, and we don’t have big issues.”
Villa will be looking to take their tally to nine points (from 12), possibly breaking into the top four, where they hope to stay for the rest of the season.
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