Aston Villa are hopeful that Ollie Watkins will be fit in time for Sunday’s Premier League trip to Tottenham Hotspur after the striker withdrew from the England squad with a minor injury.
Watkins was forced off during last week’s 3-0 win over Wales at Wembley after colliding painfully with the post while attempting to score and subsequently missed England’s World Cup qualifier against Latvia.
The 29-year-old has returned to Bodymoor Heath for treatment and will be assessed in the coming days. Villa boss Thomas Tuchel admitted the forward is still in discomfort but could yet feature in north London.
Thomas Tuchel on Ollie Watkins injury
Tuchel offered an update on his striker’s situation after Watkins was sent home from England duty for recovery work.
“He will try to make it for the weekend,” Tuchel said. “Instead of scoring, he injured himself unfortunately. It was such a big chance, an easy second goal for him. He was unlucky to hit the goalpost. It’s very painful still, so we sent him home for treatment.”
Watkins’ slow start and Villa’s improving form
Watkins has endured a sluggish start to the campaign, netting just once in 10 appearances for Villa, but his all-round contribution remains vital to Tuchel’s attacking setup. His pressing and movement have been key to the team’s recent resurgence, which includes four straight wins in all competitions.
Villa’s back-to-back Premier League victories have lifted them toward mid-table after a shaky start under Tuchel, who replaced Unai Emery earlier this season. Facing Tottenham — who are enjoying a promising run under Thomas Frank — will be a major test of that momentum.
Ollie Watkins 2025/26 season stats
| Stat (2025/26) | Ollie Watkins |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 10 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Shots per game | 2.1 |
source: sofascore Premier League data – 13 October 2025
Those numbers underline how Watkins has struggled to replicate last season’s sharpness in front of goal. However, his recovery could not come at a better time as Villa seek to maintain their recent winning streak.
Analyst Verdict — Liam Rowe, FootballPlace
In my view, Watkins’ potential return changes everything for Villa. His ability to stretch defences and press from the front is irreplaceable, even when he’s not scoring. Tuchel’s system depends on vertical runs and transitional pressure — both areas where Watkins excels.
We believe if he passes fit, Villa can genuinely challenge Spurs on Sunday. Without him, the side lack a natural outlet to exploit Tottenham’s high line, which could limit their attacking threat.
Key Insights
- Watkins pulled out of the England squad after colliding with the post vs Wales
- Villa hope he will recover in time to face Tottenham on Sunday
- Thomas Tuchel says the striker is “still in pain but trying to make it”
- The 29-year-old has scored once in 10 games this season
- Villa have won four straight matches in all competitions
What’s Next for Villa and Watkins
Aston Villa will continue to monitor Watkins’ recovery throughout the week, with final fitness checks expected on Friday. Should he return, he’ll lead the line at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on 19 October.
Tuchel is unlikely to risk him if there’s any setback, but with Villa climbing the table and eyeing a European push, his availability could prove crucial.
👉 Should Villa risk starting Watkins against Spurs or give him more recovery time?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 14 Oct 2025 10:10
Watkins has been very poor this season, but so is Villa in general, nothing seems to be clicking right now. I think Malen will start ahead if Watkins isn't fit.
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *