Ollie Watkins’ injury during Aston Villa’s Europa League clash against Ajax has raised significant concerns.
In the early stages of the last-16 second leg match, the striker collided with the goalkeeper’s trailing leg while attempting to close down a free kick, clutching his left knee in pain.
Despite initial efforts to continue playing, including heavy strapping applied by the Villa medical staff, Watkins ultimately collapsed to the pitch and had to be substituted off.
The extent of his injury is yet to be determined, with manager Unai Emery expected to provide updates after the game.
Watkins’ unfortunate incident comes just after he was named in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the upcoming March friendlies, adding further weight to the worry surrounding his condition.
