Aston Villa boss Emery may not have to choose between Watkins and Duran

Unai Emery was not allowed to choose between Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran because the Englishman was injured in the match against Nottingham Forest tomorrow.

Watkins has been the first choice in the most exciting games this season, but Duran has scored six goals from the bench – the most in Europe’s five biggest games, including a late effort in midweek’s Champions League win at RB Leipzig. .

The Colombian came on at half-time in Germany when Watkins was forced to miss the short trip to the City Ground.

Emery said: “I don’t know (if Watkins will be there) because we are waiting.

“Yesterday (Thursday) he was recovering and this afternoon we will go to train. If he trains well and feels good, he will be available tomorrow. “

Heading to the East Midlands 🔜 pic.twitter.com/fTBEidULHZ

– Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) December 13, 2024

Emery was impressed by Watkins

Although Duran has taken most of the headlines this season, Emery was quick to praise Watkins’ contribution.

The Spaniard added: “Ollie started this season in a different way to what he used to do in the past because he was with the national team (for Euro 2024).

“His success was about wanting to progress in his career and his role is different after playing so many matches and finishing after that.

“He started a little bit under his feet and with a lot of pain and injuries, but he was there to help the team and he did really well.

“We also had Jhon Duran to help us … and to do well. That’s the best thing for us here – two important fighters, one in Jhon who has a lot of potential and another one who fits us.

“Even though (Watkins) is not playing 100 percent because of a little injury, but available to play, he always does his job and does everything we need in every game. I can’t say anything bad about him. For us, he is our striker and Jhon Duran and is a good example for others.”

Villa must improve the record after the European games

Villa have won one of their five league games against them in the Champions League this season, but Emery did not have their commitment to Europe as a valid reason for their lack of domestic form.

“We won’t use it as an excuse to play more games in Europe because we want to. We have to learn and try to be creative,” he said.

“The experience we had last year was very good and this year, we have the best experience in Europe and play matches that want our way.

“More or less, we are relaxed and we are trying to be in our interests at the highest level that we want. Sometimes there has been no flexibility, but it is our intention that in the future we will adapt to what is happening.”