Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has been ruled out of Euro 2024 after suffering a hamstring injury in his side's 2-0 win over Wolves on Saturday. The 28-year-old was substituted at half-time for Jhon Duran after reporting discomfort.
Manager Unai Emery confirmed the injury after the match, stating: 'He was feeling something, hamstring, more or less, and he was telling us he could carry on playing but the doctor told us it was better not to play with risk and we decided to stop him.' Emery added that scans would determine the severity, but initial fears suggest a significant layoff.
Watkins, who has 32 goal contributions this season, was vying for a place in England's squad for the European Championship. His absence is a blow to both Villa, who are chasing a top-four finish and Europa Conference League glory, and England manager Gareth Southgate.
Villa's next match is away at Manchester City on Wednesday, and Emery will be without his top scorer for the crucial run-in.
