Unai Emery could be spared having to choose between Ollie Watkins and John Doran due to the England striker's injury in tomorrow's match with Nottingham Forest.
Watkins has been first choice in the sole attacking role this season, but Doran has scored six goals from the bench – the most of any player in Europe's top five leagues, including a long-running effort in a midweek Champions League win over R. B Leipzig. .
The Colombian came on at half-time in Germany as Watkins suffered an injury that could see him miss the short trip to the City Ground.
“I don't know (if Watkins will be available) because we're waiting,” Emery said.
“Yesterday (Thursday) he was recovering and this afternoon we will train. If he trains normally and feels good, he will be available tomorrow.
Heading to the East Midlands 🔜 pic.twitter.com/fTBEidULHZ
– Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) December 13, 2024
Emery admires Watkins
Although Doran has grabbed the bulk of the headlines this season, Emery was quick to praise Watkins' contribution.
The Spaniard added: “Ole started this season in different circumstances than he usually did in previous years because he was with the national team (in Euro 2024).
“It was clear that his improvement required him to take one step forward in his career, and the situation is different after playing more matches and finishing later.
“He started out a little bit under his feet and had more pain and injuries, but he was more or less available to help the team and gave a fantastic performance.
“We also had John Doran to help… and he was successful as well. That's what's best for us now – two important strikers, one John who has great potential and the other who is consistent with us.”
“Even when he (Watkins) is not playing 100% due to some minor injuries, but he is available to play, he always does his job and succeeds in everything we need in every match. I cannot say anything bad about him. For us, he is our striker along with John Doran It is a good example for others.
Villa need to improve their record after European matches
Villa have won just one of their five league games following their Champions League ties this season, but Emery has had no European commitments as a justification for his inconsistent domestic form.
“We will not use that as an excuse to play a lot of games in Europe because we want to. We have to learn and try to gain experience,” he said.
“The experiences we had last year were great, and this year, we have very good experiences in Europe and play difficult matches on our way.
“More or less, we feel comfortable and try to be as high as we want. Sometimes there was no consistency, but our ambition is to be consistent in the future with those conditions.
